There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis and related diseases. The most common types include osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), fibromyalgia and gout. All of them cause pain in different ways.
Are you suffering from one of the many types of Arthritis? People who live with chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis may experience more than physical pain and disability. Their illness could also affect their mentalhealth. While sometimes the illness causes mental health issues, more often than not it’s because of the changes brought about by chronic illnesses.
PILATES FOR ARTHRITIS
For a safe and effective Pilates workout, keep in mind the following guidelines from A. Lynn Millar, P.T., Ph.D., author of the American College of Sports Medicine’s Action Plan for Arthritis (Human Kinetics Publishers, 2003).
Step 1
Start with a warm-up; end with a cool down.
Step 2
Begin with exercises that work the major muscle groups (trunk, chest, abdomen, back, shoulders, hips, legs and arms).
Step 3
Perform all exercises in a controlled manner with proper technique.
Step 4
Don’t hold your breath!
Step 5
Exercise both sides of a joint to keep muscles balanced.
Step 6
Use full range of motion for each joint when possible.
Step 7
Ease up or stop if pain increases or a new pain appears.
CORE FITNESS 