More than 50-million Americans suffer from some form of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form and obesity, previous injury and genetics can predispose you for the disease. As you age, the pain and discomfort with osteoarthritis can become more challenging so it may seem counterintuitive when your physician shares this treatment for your pain--- keep moving.
Two words, "keep moving" can seem daunting when you experience pain associated with arthritis. Most people when experiencing pain will avoid motion, but speaking with Dr. Julio Paez, M.D. and Dr. Julie Saranita, D.O. they both shared activity is a key component to health and healing.
Dr. Saranita, D.O. shares, "When patients experience pain associated with osteoarthritis they often shy away from activities that keeps the joint moving and the body active. Physical therapists have a saying, "motion is lotion" movement allows nutrients to nourish the joint. Further, it is a snowball effect when you stop activity because lack of mobilization, being active causes deterioration of the joints and overall health of your body."
Dr. Paez, M.D. adds, "Joint pain involves your bones and ligaments, but it also involves chemicals that allow the brain to translate pain. We know from research that putting more stress on your joints with moderate physical activity does not lead to more joint degeneration. And in fact, low impact activities like walking, yoga and swimming can send signals to the brain that reduce experienced pain."
Dr. Saranita and Dr. Paez both shared physical activity is critical for patients overweight with arthritis. Dr. Paez shares, "Research shows that one pound of weight on the body is equal to four pounds of weight across your knee joints. So when you lose just one pound of weight it is a big deal for your knee joints."
"We continue to follow research and have recently learned even our stomach chemicals and bacteria communicate with our nerves in our bodies. The research suggests being overweight may also increase inflammation markers in the blood that can make the inflammation in your joint worse," says Dr. Paez.
While there are many tools and therapies to treat arthritis pain, being active remains key to your joint and total body health.
"Being physically active is not only important for the body, but also your mind. It promotes healing physically and emotionally," shares Dr. Saranita.
