Promote exercise to people with arthritis

When joints are stiff and in pain, physical activity seems like that last thing a person wants to do. On top of the discomfort, concerned friends and relations may urge a person with arthritis to “sit and rest.” Sedentary living, common in older adults, is certainly common in older adults with arthritis (1, 2).

There are many forms of arthritis, a chronic condition that affects the musculoskeletal system and joints (and sometimes the organs). Osteoarthritis is the most common form among all ages and particularly among older adults (3, 4). Osteoarthritis occurs because the cartilage that cushions the two bones meeting in a joint breaks down. Over time, the cartilage wears down and the bones begin to rub together. The result is changes to the joint, including swelling, bony protuberances and weakness in the joints and tendons (5, 6).