Exercise and RA

Question  I work full time and almost every day go for a 30 minute walk. My RA is still very active. Should I not go for so many walks or go a shorter distance? Should I try another type of execise? Can doing to much cause damage to my joint and cause my RA to become worse? How can I tell when I am getting enough exercise without over doing it?
 
Answer  In general, I advise my patients to remain as active as possible. Non-weight bearing exercises are best when the RA is active, but exercises should stress range of motion and muscle tone. I think the good aspects of exercise far outweighs any concern about joint damage. Common sense is the rule. If your arthritis flares significantly after exercise, you likely did too much.

Last update: 08:01 PM Tuesday, April 10, 2007

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