Strength Training for Arthritis

Strength training can help clients with arthritis reduce pain and increase strength. Research has shown exercise therapy can produce the successful pain and functional outcomes for clients with osteoarthritis.

"74% of patients initially deemed appropriate for joint replacement did not proceed to knee arthroplasty in the 12-months following a 12-week rehabilitation program." (Skou et al, 2015)

"Prehabilitation programs have been found to reduce pain, improve function and lead to better post-surgical outcomes." (Desmeules et al, 2013; Roo et al, 2006)

Reduce pain

and improve functional outcomes

Delay or avoid joint replacement surgery

or help improve post-surgical outcomes where prevention is not possible

Maximise function in hip/knee

to improve joint mobility during physical activity

Increase overall strength

to improve mobility and quality of life

Strength Training for Osteoarthritis

Healthy older couple walking on the beach

Osteoarthritis is the most common lifestyle disease in individuals 65 years of age and older, but it can also affect individuals as young as 30.

Muscle weakness has a direct effect on the structure and function of the joints and can lead to an increased risk of osteoarthritis. At Kieser, we work with clients looking to treat osteoarthritis by helping reduce pain and increase function through a program of strength training in order to strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected joints.

Strength Training for Rheumatoid Arthritis

While many with rheumatoid arthritis may instinctively try to limit their movement in order to protect their joints, exercise can in fact be a very beneficial treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. Strength training builds muscle and helps support and protect joints that are affected by arthritis. Some of the medications commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis have negative side effects such as weight gain, decrease in muscle mass and bone density as well as fatigue. Strength training can help combat these side effects as it is low impact and if performed correctly, can help improve strength, bone density and help clients lose weight.

Accredited Exercise Physiologists at Kieser can help design an exercise program that is safe and effective for clients looking for treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.

Strength Training for Arthritis

Strength Training for Osteoarthritis

Strength Training for Rheumatoid Arthritis

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