Strength Training for Arthritis

The Kieser Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Program is a twelve-week program that includes a physiotherapy assessment, exercise physiologist/scientist supervised exercise sessions on Kieser equipment as well as education sessions on nutrition and chronic pain. The long term goals of the program are to improve function and daily life by reducing pain, delaying or avoiding joint replacement surgery and provide the client with a long-term self-management program. From July 1st, 2018 to December 31st, 2018, GMHBA are providing a full rebate for the program (for eligible members) as they work together with Kieser to conduct a research pilot project. Contact your local Kieser centre to learn more.

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.

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.