Be Active With Arthritis
Everybody has heard of arthritis, yet few people actually know much about it. Arthritis means, simply, inflammation of the joints. There are over 100 different types of arthritis; some forms of arthritis are rare, while others, such as osteoarthritis, are much more common. There are several symptoms of arthritis, the most common ones being stiff, painful and inflamed joints and swelling in the affected areas. It affects about 850,000 people in Ireland – people of all ages can get it, and it accounts for one in three visits to a GP.
Even without arthritis, our bodies change as we age. We become less flexible and more prone to damage. We move slower and we are less able to do things that we were before. Interestingly, this is the time that it is most important to exercise in order to maintain a level of mobility that enables us to be independent. For older adults and seniors this becomes all the more important. It is never too late to start an exercise or mobility programme.
Many people with arthritis are afraid of exercising. When a person is experiencing pain and stiffness from arthritis, the last thing they feel like doing is exercise. They may be fatigued or may be wary of putting pressure on already painful joints for fear of injury. However experts stress the importance of keeping joints flexible with some form of daily activity. Regular, gentle exercise every day can:
• Increase balance and strength
• Reduce arthritis pain
• Improve joint function
• Reduce stiffness and inflammation
• Improve mood
Exercises that encourage flexibility and strength are recommended in particular. These can be effective in building and restoring mobility. Often, pain and joint stiffness make people reluctant to take part in any form of exercise, in which case a series of seated exercises may be more appropriate, as this can reduce the amount of stress placed on the joints.
'Be Active with Arthritis' is an exercise programme tailor-made by Arthritis Ireland for people with arthritis. This is the first of its kind, enabling people with arthritis to maintain and improve their mobility and overall well-being by using the step-by-step DVD or book.
The programme has been designed in consultation with senior physiotherapists who specialise in the area of arthritis as well those who have arthritis. Participants have reported less pain and stiffness, improved flexibility and mobility increased muscle strength and a better level of aerobic fitness and overall well-being as a direct result of following the exercises.
Exclusive offer!
Arthritis Ireland is offering Home Instead Senior Care clients an exclusive offer.
Receive an annual subscription to Arthritis Life - the award winning magazine of Arthritis Ireland, full of useful articles, tips and information on living well with arthritis – PLUS the Arthritis Ireland exercise book AND DVD
Special Home Instead Senior Care client price only €50 (usual price €61). Please use the code HISCAI when ordering.
To avail of this offer, call us on 01-6618188.