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Regular Exercise Relieves Arthritic Pain and Stiffness

August 05, 2010: 1 comment(s)

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People with arthritis tend to be less fit and move less than individuals with healthy joints. Their joint pain not only limits their range of motion, but it also breeds a fear of exercise. Now, research conducted at the University of North Carolina gives evidence that exercise can be safe and effective in reducing arthritic symptoms.

Leigh F. Callahan and colleagues set out to evaluate the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program called PACE. 346 people with an average age of 70 were divided into two groups. One group participated in two one-hour classes weekly for eight weeks. The control group was offered the classes after the initial eight weeks.

Researchers were looking for improvement in fitness, strength, psychosocial status, physical function and a reduction in pain, stiffness and fatigue.

The exercise group showed significant improvement that lasted for six months after the initial 8 weeks of treatment, if they continued exercising at home. The authors also noted that the class structure and social support played a beneficial role.

They conclude, “Our findings indicate that the basic 8-week PACE (Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program) is a safe program for sedentary older individuals with arthritis to start exercising without exacerbating their symptoms.”

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