Managing Arthritis

By: Bob Perry- Rolling Strong

We all know that you can improve your overall health through exercise, but did you know exercise could help with your arthritis symptoms as well? Staying active through exercise keeps your joints moving and can assist in managing your arthritis pain.

Arthritis is a form of joint disorder that involves painful inflammation of one or more of your joints. Although there are more than 100 different forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, they share many of the same symptoms, including different levels of pain, swelling, joint stiffness and achiness. These symptoms can have serious impacts on sufferers’ lives.

I know you are tired of hearing it, but one of the best moves you can make in tackling arthritis is lightening your load. If you are carrying extra weight you need to take the extra pressure off of those aching joints by combining exercise and cardio. The professional truck driver’s time is valuable and limited, and by combining weight training and cardio you can get maximum benefits in a short amount of time.

All I ask for is 15 minutes. First, warm up for two to three minutes. Next, combine cardio and weight training for 10 minutes. Finally, take two to three minutes to cool down and stretch. A post-exercise stretch will aid in workout recovery, decrease muscle soreness and ensure that your muscles and tendons are in good working order.

Endurance training can also help keep your muscles stronger, support your heart and provide healthier lungs. Much like a well-maintained rig, your body will run more efficiently and give you more mileage so that you can work out longer without tiring as quickly.

A couple more tips when taking on arthritis in your everyday routine:

(• ) Stay hydrated
(• ) Take a good multivitamin
(• ) Take a fish oil supplement
(• ) Take vitamin E

As always, please consult your physician before beginning any health or workout plan.