The thought of exercise might seem daunting if you suffer from joint pain, but it's actually one of the best things you can do to increase your strength and combat fatigue. Before you begin, consult with your doctor and devise a plan to work within your limits. You don't have to run a marathon, but you do have to move to help reduce symptoms. Here are some of the best exercises you can do for joint pain.
- Strengthening exercises — Weight training, even with very light weights, can help you strengthen your muscles that help support and protect your joints. Plan to start with two days a week, and rotate the muscle groups you are focusing on. You can increase to three days when you are ready. You can also use your own body weight for strengthening exercises like push-ups and holding plank.
- Aerobic exercises — Walking, cycling, and swimming can improve your cardiovascular health and give you more energy. You can start out by incorporating a low-impact aerobic activity — which is easy on your joints — a few days a week, then try to work your way up.
- Range of motion exercises — Rolling your shoulders and raising your arms over your head can relieve stiffness and increase your ability to move your joints. These are exercise you should incorporate into your daily routine. A gentle yoga class once or twice a week will also help you improve balance, prevent falls and promote relaxation.
- Daily activities — Gardening, mowing the lawn, and cleaning the house also count when it comes to moving your body. Even small movements will help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
Before or after exercise, and definitely before bed, apply Milkweed Balm to help soothe tired muscles. The combination of a routine exercise program along with Milkweed Balm can enhance the quality of your life.