|
|
|
« Back
Some Exercise Is Better than None for Arthritis Sufferers
|
Posted on: 11/30/1999
|
If you've got your health, you've got everything. Just ask one of the millions of Americans who suffer from painful arthritis. Arthritis is the most common disease reported among adults over 65. The National Arthritis Foundation (NAF) expects this number to increase as baby boomers age.
Research shows light to moderate physical activity can help reduce the effects of arthritis. The NAF has two group exercise programs for older adults with any kind of arthritis. One is on-land. The other is in the water. The on-land program is called People with Arthritis Can Exercise (PACE). The water-based program is called the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program (AFAP).
Both programs are set up around the United States. Each one offers a series of exercises to improve joint motion, mobility, posture, and balance. Improving endurance and function are natural by-products of these exercises. How well do these programs work? Few results have been reported.
This is one of the first studies to look at the effects of these two exercise programs. The researchers looked at the effect on functional fitness and activities of daily living (ADLs). Three groups were formed: on-land, aquatic, and control groups. The on-land and aquatic group met for exercise twice weekly for 45 minutes. The program lasted eight weeks. The control group didn't engage in any exercise program. They just went about their usual activities.
The researchers measured grip and arm strength, balance, and eye-hand coordination. Both exercise groups gained in strength, flexibility, and function. Researchers also measured endurance of the heart and lungs. There was no change in these areas for either group. Subjects in both groups reported reduced pain. The aquatics group had greater ease in performing ADLs.
Researchers conclude that the NAF exercise programs are effective in helping adult arthritis sufferers. Both the on-land and the aquatic program improve fitness. It's assumed that these changes come about because of the exercise. The authors suggest the education and social side of the NAF programs may also be part of the good results. Further study is needed to find out which part of the program makes the most difference.
|
References:
Rory Suomi, PED, and Douglas Collier, PhD. Effects of Arthritis Exercise Programs on Functional Fitness and Perceived Activities of Daily Living Measures in Older Adults with Arthritis. In Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. November 2003. Vol. 84. No. 11. Pp. 1589-1594.
|
|
|
« Back
|
|
|
|
*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
 | All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission. |
|
