The discomfort of arthritis can be severe in overweight individuals. The physical pain can serve as a barrier to physical activity. Then, a vicious cycle is created when decreased activity leads to increased weight, which in turn leads to further discomfort. Lifestyle changes can make a difference. Regular exercise is important in the treatment of arthritis and obesity.
Exercise can be both therapeutic and recreational.
For individuals with joint problems, therapeutic exercises that are designed to achieve specific individual goals should be recommended by a doctor, physical therapist, or occupational therapist. Changing your recreational activities to arthritis friendly ones may also make a significant difference. To specifically target exercise which benefits the arthritis sufferer, a person may contact the Arthritis Foundation to learn about their recommended programs. In addition to exercise, a nutritious diet improves overall health, helps with weight control, and contributes to a general sense of well-being. There are no special dietary requirements for overweight persons with arthritis.