This is part 1 in “Easy Exercises to Combat Arthritis”
In this series, occupational therapist Kevin Shelley focuses on common types of arthritis and simple exercises to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
A patient once told me that getting older had many benefits, including the fact that, as you age, you automatically begin meeting new friends. Chief among these new friends are Arthur Itis and Ben Gay.
As we age, the protective cartilage that cushions our joints can start breaking down, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness as our bones rub together. This happens most frequently in our necks, shoulders, spines, hips, and knees.
Understanding Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a degenerative disease characterized by changes to bone, spinal disks, and joints throughout the body and is associated with the wear and tear of life. It’s different from rheumatoid arthritis, which is caused when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body (autoimmunity).
