www.arthritis.about.com/od/oa/a/Osteo_arthritis.htm www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/osteoarthritis.html Exercise helps maintain joint and overall movement.
A program of regular physical activity can strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the affected joints and preserve mobility in joints that are developing bone spurs.Research shows that exercise is one of the best treatments for DJD. Exercise can:
•improve mood and outlook
•decrease pain
•increase flexibility
•improve the heart and blood flow
•maintain weight
•promote general physical fitness
She might want to try other lifestyle changes such as:
Applying heat and cold
Eating a healthy balanced diet
Getting rest
Losing weight if you are overweight
Protecting the joints
She should check with her doctor on which exercises are best fir her. She might want to ask about physical therapy to help her get started with exercises that will help and not hurt her condition!
best,
