Mailbag: Conquer Exercise Anxiety to Ease Joint Pain
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted October 17, 2023
“You’ve said exercise is good for joint pain, but it’s just so hard to get moving when I’m in pain. What can I do?”
-Mike from Milwaukee, WI
Hi Mike,
I KNOW it sounds contradictory to say that exercise can reduce joint pain. It IS counterintuitive. But it’s also been proven effective in study after study.
I like to use the Go Easy to Ease the Ache approach to conquer anxiety about exercising.
The keys to making it work are to…
- start slowly and
- choose low-impact activities that are gentle on the joints.
Water-based exercises are your best bet. The water provides buoyancy and cushioning. Swimming laps, water aerobics, or even just water walking are fantastic options.
For land-based exercise, cycling on a stationary bike is another excellent choice. The smooth circular motion encourages mobility without a jarring impact.
Some folks can also tolerate gentle strength training using weight machines, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises, as long as weights and repetitions are kept low.
Stretching, yoga, Tai Chi, and other mind-body exercises are excellent for increasing flexibility and range of motion.
The goal is to gently strengthen the muscles around the joints, which provide stability and absorb shock.
As activity is gradually increased, tissues become healthier, inflammation is reduced, and joint pain usually decreases.
I always remind my own patients to listen to their body and rest when needed. And I encourage them to consider supplementing their exercise routine with anti-inflammatory nutrients such as turmeric, Boswellia, fish oil, or olive leaf extract.
Taking a joint support and repair supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, UC II (collagen), MSM, or SAMe can also be useful. They typically ease pain and stiffness, making exercise easier as well.
With patient and slow progression, the Go Easy to Ease the Ache approach to exercise can improve joint health and slash pain.
P.S. Have a health concern that’s worrying you? CLICK HERE to submit your question and get featured in the weekly mailbag!
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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