Is Pilates OK to Do When You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful and sometimes debilitating condition that affects millions of people around the world. Fortunately, certain exercises can relieve some of the symptoms associated with the disease. Pilates is commonly recommended for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Identification

• Pilates is a low-impact style of exercise that concentrates on strengthening the abdominal and back muscles (core muscles), improving flexibility, increasing range of motion and enhancing breathing techniques. People practice Pilates to improve their physical and mental well-being.

Condition

• Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis experience intense pain and swelling in the joints; occasionally the pain is so intense that it is completely debilitating.

Recommendation

• An article in USA Today mentions that chiropractors have begun to recommend Pilates for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Pilates is able to strengthen the muscles, which helps to stabilize and support the damaged joints.

Benefits

• Exercise in general is recommended for treating the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. However, Pilates is one of the best choices because workouts can be easily altered to match the flexibility of the rheumatoid arthritis patient.

Considerations

• Although Pilates will not cure rheumatoid arthritis, it should relieve the pain associated with the condition. With regular Pilates practice, rheumatoid arthritis patients should also find that their condition does not become worse or debilitating.