Staying Active with Osteoarthritis

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce pain and improve mobility for people with arthritis. There are many activities to consider that are appropriate for people with osteoarthritis.

Activities that can be beneficial for osteoarthritis include cycling, walking, water exercise (swimming, aqua jogging, water aerobics), yoga, Pilates, and Tai Chi. It’s important to speak with your primary care provider to determine if an activity is right for you.

Here are some other exercise options to get you started.

Exercises for Osteoarthritis of the hip and/or knee

The following exercise booklets are designed to guide you through two phases of rehabilitation. While primarily intended for a pre and post surgery phase, many of these exercises can be done at any point in time depending on personal comfort, needs, and abilities.

Phase 1 focuses on exercises tailored to enhance mobility and overall joint function while seeking to reduce discomfort, laying a solid foundation for recovery.
Phase 2 encompasses progressive exercises that continue to work on flexibility, while building functional strength.

This dual-phase approach ensures a smooth transition from pre-operative conditioning to post-operative recovery, promoting optimal outcomes and long-term joint health.

Physical Therapy

Benefits of Physical Therapy extend beyond pain relief and improved mobility. By addressing muscular imbalances or postural issues that often arise from compensatory movements due to pain or weakness, pressure can be alleviated on affected joints while simultaneously enhancing overall function. This approach could potentially delay the need for joint replacement, and/or promote optimal recovery outcomes for those who are surgical candidates.

Community Exercise Options for Lethbridge and Area

Supervised Exercise Programs with AHS

Walking to Wellness, and Moving Matters are some of the supervised exercise programs offered by Alberta Health Services. These programs provide a safe environment where participants engage in tailored exercise under the guidance of trained professionals. Supervised group exercise not only addresses physical health, but also contributes to emotional and social well-being, empowering those living with conditions such as osteoarthritis to lead more active and fulfilling lives.

Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Fitness Classes

A supervised program specific to those with hip or knee arthritis is offered through the Rebound Health Centre. The classes provide education and exercise interventions to help individuals better understand their condition and improve their overall function and pain to support a more active and fulfilling lifestyle. Key components of this program include education, supervised exercise, behavioural support and outcome tracking.

Fitness Classes at LSCO and Nord Bridge Seniors Centre

Both the LSCO (Lethbridge Seniors Citizen Organization) and Nord Bridge Seniors Centre offer a variety of fitness classes with drop-in options to more structured registered programs, including those specific to OA. These classes could be great for those looking for a guided, tailored approach to fitness in a social setting.

Fitness Classes at LSCO and Nord Bridge Seniors Centre

Walking is a great way to manage your OA as it helps maintain joint mobility and strength without excessive strain. The Runner's Soul Walking Club ensures warm, ice-free conditions for walking during the winter while enjoying great company.