When a person suffers from joint pain, virtually any activity that they take part in is difficult and extremely painful. This is true whether you have joint pain because of arthritis or because of an injury that now has you in rehab. Regardless, for enhanced comfort and mobility, it is crucial that you keep moving. At the same time, you need to protect yourself from injury. Here are four low-impact exercises that will give you the benefits you need to stay healthy and protect you from injury while helping to improve the health of your painful joints:

1. Yoga

Yoga is a very popular activity in today's society. It can be particular beneficial for stress relief as well as those who suffer from joint pain. Yoga consists of gentle stretches and movements, which will build up your muscle strength, enhance flexibility, improve your balance and enhance joint function and comfort. Studies show that yoga has been very effective in reducing muscle stiffness and joint pain.

2. Pilates

Though pilates is similar to yoga, it is a different activity. Pilates actually focuses on a specific part of the body – the core. The movements are also very slow and controlled, which maximizes the effectiveness of the activity on your joints. As a general rule, you will perform pilates on your stomach, side or back. Since there is little to no impact on your joints, pilates is the perfect activity to help improve joint health. After performing pilates for a little while, you will see that your range of motion has improved, which will help prevent further joint damage. Plus, pilates has been known to help with cardiovascular disease.

3. Swimming

Aquatic exercise, which is exercising in the water, is particularly beneficial for those who are in rehabilitation after a surgery, aiming to improve cardiovascular health and looking to improve muscle strength. When you build up your muscles, you are enhancing the health of your joints. Swimming is easier on your joints than many other activities. Plus, it has been shown to help improve your blood pressure, circulation and breathing while lowering your heart rate.

4. Walking

Running can be extremely hard on your joints. This is especially true for your back, knees and feet. However, if you want to get similar activity in, then you may want to consider walking instead of running or jogging. It is much gentler on the body, but it still gets your heart pumping. Make sure that you have a pair of shoes that are supportive and well-fitting. 

If you suffer from joint pain, it is important that you do not become a couch potato. You need to remain active, as this will help relieve that pain that you are feeling while also improving your health overall. Plus, for rehabilitation to work well, you must keep your body moving. If you would like more ideas about how you can stay appropriately and safely active, contact your rehabilitation doctor today.

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