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Exercise and Osteoarthritis

British Columbia Specific Information

Physical activity has so many benefits to your health. It can help you get to and stay at a healthy body weight, reduce the risk of bone fractures if you have osteoporosis, and can reduce the risk of many other illnesses like cancer and heart disease. For most people, participating in physical activity is safe. However, some people should check with their health care provider or a qualified exercise professional before they start becoming more physically active.

For information on the benefits of physical activity, setting goals and overcoming barriers, as well as safety tips and precautions, visit the Physical Activity section of our website.

If you have questions about physical activity or exercise, call 8-1-1 to speak to a qualified exercise professional, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm Pacific Time, or you can Email Physical Activity Services. You can also leave a message after hours.

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Topic Overview

A regular exercise program is an important part of anyone's lifestyle. If you have osteoarthritis, check with your health professional before beginning or continuing any exercise so that you can determine whether it is safe and effective for osteoarthritic joints.

Stretching exercises will help prevent the stiffness associated with osteoarthritis and help prevent injury. Strengthening muscles and ligaments makes arthritic joints stronger and reduces stress on the joint. Stronger thigh muscles, for example, take some of the stress off of weight-bearing joints such as knees and hips. Simple exercise, such as walking or tai chi, may help reduce knee pain.

Qualified exercise professionals and/or physiotherapists sometimes are needed to help persons with damaged joints or joint replacements learn the best exercises for their particular condition.

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Credits

Adaptation Date: 11/5/2019

Adapted By: HealthLink BC

Adaptation Reviewed By: HealthLink BC

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