Exercise is Good for Arthritis Sufferers

Men living with the pain of arthritis could find exercise to be the key to a more comfortable future.

Arthritis Care spokesperson Christina Nicolaidou explains that exercise can be important for men and women alike if they have arthritis.

However, she concedes that it may not always seem like a tempting prospect for people who feel pain when they move. But low-impact exercises, such as Tai Chi, can still be beneficial, she stresses.

Indeed, Ms Nicolaidou recommends that anybody with arthritis should pursue whatever physical activity they feel is appropriate and manageable.

The same advice applies to those who are awaiting, or have previously undergone, the replacement of a damaged joint.

She explains that it is "crucial" that the muscles around the joint be kept strong and healthy - both before and after the procedure.

"Good" exercises recommended by Ms Nicolaidou should incorporate this strengthening, along with an aerobic workout and activity across the full range of movement, she says.

In the case of Tai Chi, she notes that the benefits reported by many people include improved energy levels and better balance.

An increase in overall fitness levels is also commonly witnessed in those who pursue the discipline, the arthritis expert adds.