Medical research shows that physical activity is both safe and beneficial for people with arthritis, osteoporosis, and other chronic conditions of bones and joints. Prolonged bed rest and inactivity may delay your recovery. A balanced fitness program of regular physical activity and specific exercises can strengthen the muscles of the stomach, hips, and thighs, which can relieve chronic back pain, prevent the condition from getting worse, or prevent future attacks of pain. Talk with your physician about staying in good physical condition by running, walking, swimming, bicycle riding, or weight lifting, as well as using correct techniques when sitting, standing, lifting and moving objects. For persons with arthritis, many types of exercise will help to strengthen joints and the surrounding muscles.
Exercise also can relieve joint stiffness and reduce pain.
Inactivity may aggravate the problem because weak muscles around the joints can lead to joint instability. Regular exercise will also help maintain good balance, so that you are less likely to fall and suffer a disabling bone fracture. While recovering from joint replacement surgery, follow a graduated walking program and specific exercises prescribed by your orthopaedic surgeon or physical therapist to restore movement and strengthen the muscles and ligaments surrounding the prosthesis. Normal, healthy levels of activity should not damage the prosthesis or joint replacement. In fact, to take full advantage of the surgery, you must stay active for the rest of your life.