Running Can Improve Arthritis

NoN Community,
Yep.  It is true.  Running can improve the health of your joints and actually improve the tissue quality in people with arthritis.  Too many people think that once you have arthritis that running will actually make it worse.  In fact, the opposite is true.  Being sedentary leads to more incidence of joint breakdown.  So how does this happen?

Aside from improving joint fluid flow and nutrient transport, running can provide several benefits for individuals with arthritis:

1. Strengthening Muscles: Running helps strengthen the muscles around the joints, providing better support and stability. Strong muscles help reduce the load on the affected joints, potentially alleviating arthritis symptoms.
2. Weight Management: Regular running can help control body weight and maintain a healthy BMI (body mass index). Excess weight puts additional stress on joints, particularly the knees and hips, which can worsen arthritis symptoms. By managing weight, running can reduce the strain on joints and potentially improve arthritis-related pain.
3. Cardiovascular Health: Running is a form of cardiovascular exercise that improves heart health, boosts circulation, and increases oxygen flow to the joints. Better circulation can enhance the delivery of nutrients and removal of waste products from joint tissues, potentially improving arthritis symptoms.
4. Joint Flexibility: Running involves repeated joint movements, which can help improve joint flexibility. Enhanced joint flexibility can reduce stiffness and improve range of motion in arthritic joints, leading to increased mobility and decreased pain.
5. Mood and Mental Well-being: Engaging in regular physical activity like running releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals. Running can improve mental well-being, reduce stress, and help manage depression and anxiety often associated with chronic conditions like arthritis.
   

Obviously, every person is different so it is important to note that running may not be suitable for everyone with arthritis, particularly those with advanced joint damage or certain types of arthritis that are exacerbated by impact. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, including running, to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific condition.  There are so many ways a physical therapist can modify activities and keep you active.  Physical therapists are the movement experts, consult one today.

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Articles to Check Out

Arthritis Foundation.
Northwestern Medicine.
NIH.gov.

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