Physical Activity Programs
Moderate physical activity is the simplest and cheapest pain reliever for arthritis. There are a number of physical activity programs designed specifically for people with arthritis. Such programs as Walk With Ease, Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance, and Tai Chi use gentle activities to help increase joint flexibility and range of motion, maintain muscle strength, and increase overall stamina.
Participants of these physical activity programs report such benefits as improved functional ability, increased self-care behaviors, reduced pain and decreased depression.