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Sunday, May 6, 2007

Strength Training and Joint Pain


Strength Training May Reduce Joint Pain
From Elizabeth Quinn,
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Strong Muscles Take the Stress Off Joints
Research published in the Journal of Rheumatology suggests that relief from joint pain is linked to certain simple strength training routines.
In this study individuals with arthritis engaged in a four month-long exercise program consisting of simple weight bearing exercises, such as squats and leg extensions, in their own homes. The exercisers experienced a 43 percent reduction in pain and a 44 percent improvement in physical functioning. The exercisers were able to walk, climb stairs, sit, and stand more easily than their non-exercising counterparts.
The authors comment that exercise is effective because muscles act as shock absorbers for the joints; they are able to spare a person’s joints the impact of their body weight during activity such as walking. The better shape the muscles are in, the better they are able to absorb this shock.
According to the findings, individuals who are self-motivated may be able to manage their arthritis pain with exercise and reduce the pain medication they need. And even though pills help pain and stiffness, they don’t rebuild muscles or protect the joints like exercise can.

_______________Keizer's Comment_______________________

This is not a new concept to Corrective Exercise Specialists but is not often a recommended by many doctors I deal with. In fact, many physicians expressly prohibit weight lifting activities for their clients with joint pain.
I believe that this is largely due to the fact that many trainers simply do not know how to deal with this population and can end up doing more harm than good. I can't count the number of clients I have to had to sort out after injuries caused by another trainer.
Unless one has had specific training in post-rehabilitation, corrective exercise or an advanced Kinisiological approach such as that learned by CHEK Practitioners, joint conditions can be confusing and difficult to work with. Muscle imbalances from under active and overactive muscle groups cascade down the kinetic chain to cause all kinds of different joint dysfunction and pain conditions which are not usually obvious.
So, finding a corrective exercise specialist to assess your condition and write a corrective exercise prescription to address the root problem is essential
Once the initial imbalances are corrected, any good trainer can encourage proper form and prevention of any further exercise-related injury. I would recommend finding a trainer with an ACSM, NASM ACE or comparable certification and experience working with your condition.

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