Water exercises

[Edu2r1]

I have RA and my doctor just recently suggested water exercises. Has anyone tried this? Does it ease the flareups?

[Hidden]

Do you mean hydrotherapy? If so yes it does help the experience I had was good the exercises are very gentle on the joints I had 5 sessions each lasting 15-20 minutes the water is warm I would recommend it

[earthwitch]

I'm not sure about easing flare ups, but it is really useful because it allows you to keep moving joints without as much stress, even when you are in a bit of flare, and being flexible and able to keep up exercise will generally help disease control. If you can, go to a class that is specially for people with arthritis, or one that is run by a physio or someone who understands pool physio - rather than a class for people who aren't having problems. I had a few sessions with a physio years back, and then that was enough for me to be able to continue on my own. Also, if you have arthritis, a slightly warmer pool than usual for swimming makes things a lot easier. If you can't get to a special hydrotherapy or physio pool, then sometimes childrens pools are kept at a slightly higher temperature than normal for swimming. Ask the pool staff whether there is any difference at any time.

[Reykua]

Hi Edu2r1

The Short answer is YES.

My sister was diagnosed with RA about ten years ago and regularly undertakes water bourne exercise, swimming and hydrotherapy and is convinced that she would not have been able to continue to work if she hadn't.

Start slowly and grade upwards. Try not to overdo anything. All things in moderation. When you find the level that is right for you, stick with it until it stops working then readjust. That's the advice she gave me and I find it works.

Wishing you all the best.

PS Make sure you find a warm centre, not just in terms of helpful staff but that the place is well heated, both inside the water and out. My sister had a horrible experience at a 'cold' centre she used once near her work and it did set her back a bit.

[Fedupwithmybackpain]

Definitely hydrotherapy is a great help with chronic pain, I am currently waiting on hydrotherapy. I devinitely recommend it.

[Fedupwithmybackpain]

Hydrotherapy is a great help to relieving chronic pain.I recommend it.

[MrsSAG]

I have read that follow The Paleo Diet has actually rid people of R.A. I think you will find the following book by Loren Cordain Ph.D. The Paleo Answer very interesting in this regard. In one case history the person reports that they were cured of R.A. and others report alleviation of all manner of other diseases. How it can do this is explained in the book which is available on Amazon.

Keeping mobility in the joints is very important of course and doing exercise in water provides gentle resistance according to how vigorously one performs the movements so it's best to go very easy at first. It may help the joints to feel more comfortable. However, this is a treatment of symptoms and not the originating causes of the autoimmune disease. That is why researching about the causes of this inflammation which may well be linked to gut inflammation, dysbiosis and dietary causes. The autoimmune version of the Paleo Diet can be even more beneficial in this regard. I do hope this information helps you. R.A. can be so painful and debilitating but there is hope, so never give up. There is a lot you can do to help yourself. Wishing you success on your healing journey.

Best regards

MrsSAG

[onamission]

I have severe lower back pain and COPD and I go to my local aqua fit class it has been a life saver for me keeps the weight off and keeps me supple

[Edu2r1]

Thank you everyone. I checked out a Wellness Center and am starting classes on the 15th. My daughter is going with me. She has nerve problems and a bad shoulder from a horseback accident. I think this will help us both.