Best Exercise Equipment for Arthritis and Knee Pain
By Brandi Swieter
Not all exercise equipment is made the same. Some proves much more harsh on the body than other options, leaving many people in a great deal of pain after use. People with arthritis or other forms of pain should stick to certain machines so they do not exacerbate their symptoms. Some of the best exercise equipment for arthritis and knee pain may not be what people expect.
Treadmills
Walking outdoors on pavement is harsh on the knees, especially for those who already struggle with knee pain. Treadmills are better for this because they absorb some of the impact and limit the amount of pressure felt on the joints and cartilage in this area of the body. Invest in a treadmill if you want a walking workout that will cause less damage to the legs.
Elliptical Trainers
To simulate stair climbing, many people turn to elliptical trainers. This option works well for people with arthritis due to the control panel that lets users dictate their level of resistance and amount of incline. The steps become less steep and more manageable on the body with the use of these controls. It reduces the risk of injury from a greater impact.
Recumbent Bike
Also known as a stationary, a recumbent bike allows users to sit upright and remain in proper posture. Thanks to the wide, cushioned seat, people using this equipment have less of a chance of damage to the hips and spine. These are often areas plagued with arthritis, so people want to be careful they are not putting too much pressure on these locations of their body.
Rowing Machine
Many people forget to consider their hands during a workout, but the wrists and hands are yet another area that can develop arthritis. Some machines may have wires to pull or weights to hold that cause discomfort in the wrists. A rowing machine with a wide bar attachment is the best option in this instance. Sitting with an upright posture helps to keep the core engaged. It is best to start at a low resistance and work up to more so users know how much weight they can handle.
Stop in at The Joint Chiropractic if the exercise equipment you’ve been using has started to take a toll on the body. A doctor of chiropractic can offer pain relief and recommendations for future exercise techniques based on any problem areas. Those suffering from arthritis and other sources of pain should only stick to this equipment and avoid other options that will cause the pain to worsen.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Wyckoff, N.J.