Water and Arthritis - Page 2
Water Can Provide Joint Pain Relief and Healing
Since arthritis pain and stiffness is a result of joints not being properly cushioned, water can help by lubricating and providing padding for these areas. Also, these symptoms are a result of increased friction between the cartilage surfaces. When the joints move, a suction pulls water from the bone marrow to the joint cavity-- if there is available water. If there is not enough water, the joints can't glide as they should. So, an increased water intake and being hydrated can keep that water supply there-- and reduce some of the pain. Lack of hydration will produce friction and shearing stress at the contact point of the joint. In the case of severe dehydration, dry cartilage may die and peel from their contact surface of the bones. Also, with gout, it can also remove uric acid and other toxins. Gout is a painful disease that is caused by deposits of uric acid crystals in the bloodstream, ending up in the joints of the body. It is characterized by pain, swelling, redness, and heat/inflammation as well as stiffness in a joint or joints. Gout is also a form of arthritis, or inflammation of the joints, and is more common for men. Water will also provide relief for people suffering from gout.
Exercise to Strengthen your Bones and Muscles
Like in osteoporosis, water exercise is also a very effective means of both reducing pain and staying in shape. When one has arthritis, they usually do not want to move their joints more than they have to. However, if staying in one place too long, the ligaments can tighten causing more pain. Regular exercise can help with flexibility and strength, as well as get the body in shape to do everyday tasks. Water exercise is a gentle way to exercise joints and muscles. Just being in the water allows the muscles to relax. The soothing heat and buoyancy of warm water make it a safe, ideal environment for relieving arthritis pain and stiffness. Also, water creates resistance which builds muscle strength. Using a spa can massage your body and help you relax tight muscles.
Living Comfortably with Arthritis
To summarize, arthritis is a disorder that can be treated and managed with proper care, nutrition and exercise. People with joint pain should make sure they are well hydrated at all times and avoid drinking fluoridated tap water as water plays a big role in healing joint pain. Exercise is also beneficial. Just because you have arthritis does not mean you must limit all movement, so go and enjoy more relaxing exercises such as walking, yoga, swimming, and golf!
