EXERCISE AND REST

Research shows that exercise is one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis. Exercise improves mood, outlook, decreases pain, increases flexibility, improves blood flow, helps maintain weight and promotes general physical fitness. In addition to exercise, your treatment regimen must include rest. Be sure to pay attention to your body's signals and know when to stop or slow down to prevent pain caused by overdoing it.

Try these simple exercises to improve your joint movement, keep your joints from getting stiff and keep your muscles strong.

Sample exercise: Knee Stretch

Remember to start off at a level you are comfortable with. Before pushing yourself, be sure to watch for signs of overexertion, such as increased pain, excessive tiredness, or decreased range of motion.

Sit on the edge of a chair with your legs stretched out in front of you, heels resting on the floor. Stretch your toes toward your head, using the muscle that runs across the front of your knee. Push the back of your knee toward the floor. You should feel the back of your knee and ankle stretching.

Advanced: Put your heels on a footstool, and lean forward as you stretch your toes toward your head.

extension

Sample exercise: Knee Extension

Sit back in a chair, with a towel under your knees for padding. Your feet should be flat on the floor, shoulder-width apart, knees bent directly above them. Raise your right leg to the count of three until your knee is straight but not locked. Hold for a moment, then lower your leg to the count of three. Repeat with your left leg.

Other recommended exercises for those suffering from OA of the knee are low impact aerobics, swimming and cycling.