“My joint is worn out from activity, so exercise will make it worse”
Image source: https://gladaustralia.com.au/joint-health-infographics/
It is a common misunderstanding that exercise can wear out a joint, but research shows that in fact the opposite is true. Exercise at the right level optimises joint health and provides greater pain relief than medication… without the side effects!1
Many different types of exercise have been shown to be beneficial in managing osteoarthritis.1 This means there are many different activity options to suit all preferences.
Speak to your physio to find an activity that will best suit your body and that you love doing.
This blog is written by Maddy Dawson, Physiotherapist at Back In Motion Eltham.
References:
- Skou, Søren T., Bente Klarlund Pedersen, J. Haxby Abbott, Patterson, B., and Barton, C. “Physical activity and exercise therapy benefit more than just symptoms and impairments in people with hip and knee osteoarthritis.” journal of orthopaedic & sports physical therapy 48, no. 6 (2018): 439-447.