Patient/caregiver was educated on the role of exercise of osteoarthritis as follows:
- Exercise helps to reduce pain & tenderness in the joint, which results in improved participation in the exercise schedule.
- Exercise helps to improve strength & stability in the inflamed joint. This results in improved balance and coordination.
- Improved strength and balance helps improve posture, which contributes to reducing stress on the inflamed joint.
- Increased stability and improved balance in the inflamed joint contributes to reducing risk for falls & accidents.
- Also, exercise helps to maintain & restore flexibility in the joint, which contributes towards reducing the stiffness and improving range of motion in the inflamed joint.
- Improved range of motion in the inflamed joint contributes towards improved independence of the individual and reduced caregiver dependence.
- If weightbearing on the involved joint is being difficult, non-weightbearing range of motion exercises for the joint can also help pain control and restore function & flexibility in the joint. Check with your physician or therapist regarding recommendations for non-weightbearing range of motion exercises for the joint involved.
- Swimming and other aqua exercises in warm water can also be an option. Water helps to support your weight, which reduces the stress on your hurting joint and the warmth offers soothing relief.
