Regular Exercise: Good or Bad for Osteoarthritis?

If you have the start of degenerative arthritis will exercise make it better or worse? Many people believe that exercise wears away the joint cartilage even more.

Adults in the United States are already very sedentary. Over half don't meet the minimum standard for physical activity. A diagnosis of osteoarthritis (OA) often pushes them toward greater inactivity.

But the truth is that moderate exercise early on is one of the best ways to reduce hip or knee pain from OA. In fact studies show that activity has the same effect on cartilage as it does on muscle and bone. It enhances and improves cartilage rather than wear and tear it down.

More study is needed to identify the exact "best" exercise program. Is "moderate" exercise the same for each person? Does the extent of joint damage make a difference? These and many other questions must be answered before specific exercise programs can be prescribed.

For now, adults with an early diagnosis of OA are advised to stay active and exercise regularly.