However, several studies have documented subjective and objective improvement following an exercise program. Four hundred and thirty nine arthritis patients were put into either an aerobic exercise group, a resistance exercise group or a health education group as a control. Even if a patient with severe arthritis can't tolerate full-impact exercise, he can benefit from aquatic exercise programs. The theory is that the buoyancy of the water decreases the stress on the joints. The Arthritis Foundation has adopted a program that includes 68 specific exercises that are done in warm water.
Patients work at their own pace as long as they perform the exercises properly.
Aerobic exercise should be performed at least three times a week, with at least 30 minutes per session in the target heart rate range. If a patient is unable to do 30 minutes at the beginning, studies have shown that three 10-minute sessions spread throughout the day will be beneficial and will lead to an increase in aerobic capacity. 1 Strength training or resistance training should be performed two to three times per week with at least one day in between sessions to allow for muscle recovery. All of the major muscle groups should be targeted, including shoulders, biceps, triceps, quadriceps, hamstrings and calves. By improving muscular strength around arthritic joints, the muscles can bear more of the load and decrease the force applied to the already damaged cartilage.