A study conducted at the Queen Mary University of London found that physical activity prevents arthritis-related damage of the cartilage.
During exercising, cells in your joints are able to suppress inflammatory molecules that trigger arthritis, and even prevent the damage of your cartilage. Physical activity affects even the tiniest cell structure called primary cilia.
Exercise is really important and it has a magnificent effect on your body. Sedentary lifestyle worsens existing health conditions, and physical activity has shown to be effective in many aspects.
What triggers arthritis?
Science has recognized over 100 different type of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout. This condition is the leading cause of disability in our country. According to statistics, over 50 million American adults are diagnosed with some type of arthritis.
Arthritis is commonly known as joint inflammation. Scientists are unable to determine the exact cause of arthritis, but they believe it’s triggered by genetic factors and lifestyle choices.
The human body is designed to respond to injuries through inflammation. In cases of arthritis, joints are damaged, which leads to swelling, stillness, pain and limited movement. Arthritis “kills” your ability to do daily tasks such as walking, getting dressed or having a shower.
Exercise and cartilage damage
Joint cartilage is compressed during physical activity, and this is actually positive change. Cells “know’ they are compressed, and their response includes inhibiting inflammatory compounds that cause arthritis and other conditions.
Researchers have found that inflammation is suppressed as a result of the activation of HDAC6, a protein that helps proteins in the primary cilia change.
Primary cilia are really tiny (1-10 micrometers long). These changes help researchers measure the inflammation in your system. Primary cilia are longer in cases of inflammation. The activation of the HDAC6 protein prevents the elongation, thus suppressing inflammation.
Hopefully, these findings will help researchers develop medicine that mimics the effect of the mechanical power of exercise.
Exercises that lower the risk of arthritis
It’s really important that you keep your joints mobile. However, keep in mind that too much exercise or overuse of some joints may contribute to arthritis.
Pretty much any type of exercise may lower your risk of arthritis or relieve your existing arthritis pain. Regular physical activity strengthens your muscles and joints. Here are some nice suggestions:
- Walking
- Biking
- Swimming
- Jogging
- Water exercises
- Weight training
Other research
There are several studies focused on the effect of physical activity on arthritis. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, resistance and aerobic exercises may reduce muscle weakness and optimize joint function.
Patients with knee arthritis enjoyed a lot of benefits after engaging in aerobic or resistance exercise programs.
Regular exercise prevents cartilage loss as it builds strong muscles and better endurance.
When combined together, moderate weight loss and moderate exercise improve the function in obese adults diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis.
If resistance training is too challenging for you, go for a walk. Even walking can provide great benefits.
Final words
Physical activity is important in every phase of your recovery. Keep in mind that it should be light and moderate. Adjust your exercise program to your health condition, and don’t try too hard because you may end up dealing with serious injuries.
Workouts can do wonders for your body. Pay more attention to the signs your body sends every day. You may need a good jog.
Sources: theheartysoul.com
