Arthritis is inflammation in the joints that can cause pain and stiffness in the body. While some people falsely believe playing sports can cause arthritis, physical therapy and sports can actually relieve arthritis symptoms. To learn more about the effects of playing sports on arthritis, check out the guide below. 

What Is the Impact of Sports on Arthritis?

For people showing early signs of arthritis, like pain and stiffness in the joints, maintaining a fitness routine is essential to alleviating symptoms. Weight management and muscular strength training each help relieve pressure on the joints. Low impact exercises like walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga are ideal for helping to ease arthritis symptoms. While no sports are strictly off-limits for arthritis patients, consult your doctor before committing to a brand new sport. Pay attention to your body’s cues about pain. If you’re experiencing discomfort, don’t ignore it. You could risk a more serious injury. 

What Are the Different Types of Arthritis?

There are over a hundred different types of arthritis and related conditions, but certain types affect more active individuals over others. For example, osteoarthritis involves cartilage in the joints breaking down, which can be brought on by an improperly healed joint injury earlier in life. However, other forms of the condition like rheumatoid arthritis, involve the immune system attacking the joints, and is not brought on by significant joint use. Other forms of joint pain like gout are a form of arthritis brought on by urate crystals in the joints.

If you are looking for a trusted physical therapy center, contact Snyder Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation in Lincoln, NE. Their physicians specialize in pain management and physical therapy, offering individualized treatment to help you regain mobility and strength. They regularly help patients overcome issues from ligament injuries, shoulder replacements, osteoarthritis, and other forms of arthritis. To make an appointment, call (402) 489-1999. To learn more about their services, visit their website.