Psoriatic Arthritis and Daily Exercise

Exercise is known to be a wonderful universal "fix all" proven to help improve stress related feelings, alleviate depression, and can provide an uplifting boosts to one's self-esteem.

"What is good for one is not necessarily good for another" is a rule that applies when looking at exercise. While exercise is universal for improving psychological health, it is not universal in its application. One must first determine what their body considers to be safe and appropriate exercise. To do this it means taking into account one's fitness level, goals, and overall health condition.

The thing to remember about exercise is that "less is more" and not to over do it. It is more beneficial to engage in a little exercise everyday than over doing it. You do not want to need recovery days.

As we grow older, exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining mobility, strength, and flexibility in our joints. Staying active with regular exercise keeps joints limber and reduces the onset of swelling, stiffness, and discomfort from under utilization. Exercise also helps our vital organs to operate at optimal efficiency. The end result is more energy, less stress, and an overall a better quality of life.

For those struggling with the painful symptoms of psoriatic arthritis the word exercise can prove to be stressful. This is exactly why exercise, is all the more important for individuals with psoriatic arthritis. Without proper movement, joints will gradually become stiffer and muscles can become weak.

Overtime joints that remain in the same position for long periods of time or are unused will actually lock and seize. In fact is also common for thee to be a fusion of joints and stiffness of the spine for those suffering with psoriatic arthritis making it very important to continue to maintain joint movement with proper daily exercise.

This exercise does not need to be extreme. Simple daily activities, such as light housework, walking the dog or parking farther away from the building are all excellent ways to increase joint movement. Some people with arthritis find it easier to move in water which makes swimming or walking laps in a pool great ways to exercise without adding additional stress to aching joints. Stationary bikes are another way to loosen stiff joints without added impact on ankles and feet. Even stretching exercises and yoga are also beneficial ways to maintain flexibility range of motion.

When setting your goals, it is important to be realistic. Start small by scheduling 2 days to exercise for 10 - 15 minutes your first week. As time passes, gradually increase the number of days and ultimately the amount of time you dedicate to each exercise session. Pick the time of day that you feel your best and exercise at this time. Try to meet up with a friend or neighbor to walk the dogs or do your daily exercise routine. Join a community-swimming group, or sign up for a low impact exercise class. Working with someone else will help you stay motivated.

A regular exercise routine is proven to impact the quality of life, especially for those faced with loss of mobility. Psoriatic arthritis may impact the quality of life and daily living of millions of individuals, but it's not alone. In the end, a daily dose of "the universal fix all" relieves stress, provides a sense of accomplishment, maintains range of motion, and boosts one's self-esteem.