Looking for a great summer workout? Escape the heat and turn to swimming and water exercise instead.
Swimming provides an overall workout for the body that can benefit anyone; however it's especially effective for people with arthritis. Why? The buoyancy of the water helps reduce the stress on painful weight-bearing joints and allows for increased range of motion. "Arthritis Today" reports that if you're not into swimming laps but still want the benefits of a water workout, try water walking. Water walking is easy on the joints, and it's a great workout to help strengthen and build muscle, thanks to the water's resistance.
So jump in! Exercising in a pool is especially beneficial in the hot months, as you'll avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration, two common problems that occur with summer fitness. Remember to always keep hydrated. Ready to start? Visit your local athletic club or YMCA, which offer many water exercise classes. Your joints will thank you.
Too Cool for the Pool? Take this swim quiz and find out why swimming is such great exercise.
There's Hope for Sciatica
There's good news for people battling Sciatica (lower back to leg pain). While often painful, it rarely causes serious or permanent damage. In fact, most sciatica is caused by inflammation and can be diagnosed and treated conservatively. With rest and over time, sciatica usually heals on its own, though pain relief options are available. Find out the treatment options that are best for you or call 855-UMASS-MD (855-862-7763) to schedule an appointment with a UMass Memorial physician.
Three Common Running Pains and When to See a Doctor
Aches and pains are normal after a workout. Here are a few tips to know if your pain may be more serious:
Shin splints
Pain: Moderate to severe pain and tenderness along your shins
What to do: Ice after workouts, and scale down your running mileage. If the pain continues after 2-3 weeks, make an appointment with a physical therapist or sports medicine doctor.
Plantar fasciitis
Pain: Pain in your heel bone or the arch of your foot
What to do: Practice foot and calf stretches, and ice after workouts. If the pain continues see a doctor, who may prescribe a splint to wear at night to stretch your plantar fascia.
Strained hamstring
Pain: Sharp pain below your butt or behind your thighs
What to do: Minor strains should go away after a few days of rest in addition to icing and stretching. If pain continues or there are visible bruises, a physical therapist can give you an exercise routine to strengthen your hamstring muscles.
To find a specialist that can help your pain go away, call 855-UMASS-MD.
Video: Exercising with Arthritis is Good For Your Joints
For those suffering from arthritis, the thought of exercising may be intimidating. However, exercise offers many benefits to arthritis patients, including stronger bones, increased flexibility and reduced joint pain. Jennifer Baima, MD, UMass Memorial Health Care physiatrist, discusses how arthritis patients can get started with low stress exercises. Watch video.
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