Exercise for People With Severe Arthritis

Exercise for People With Severe Arthritis

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QUESTION: You always mention exercise as part of the programs that lead to
better health, but you forget that many of your readers suffer with severe
arthritis and can't follow your advice. In spite of constant medication and
moving to a new and warmer climate, my old joints just can't take the stress.
What are people like me supposed to do?
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ANSWER: You might find your answer in the latest edition of "Arthritis
Today," the publication of the Arthritis Foundation. They are convinced that
people with arthritis not only can participate in an exercise program, but
should. It may be that you need a special program that takes heed of your
problems, and provides just the right amount of activity that will help you.
They have developed a new program, "People with Arthritis Can Exercise," also
called PACE, that may provide the answer you are seeking. The program is
divided into two levels. The Basic program or Level 1 is designed for people
with severe joint disease, people who may need walkers or even wheelchairs to
get about. Level 2 or Advanced is useful for those whose problems are less
severe, but who tire easily. In both programs you can be helped to develop
greater flexibility and ease of movement. They also sponsor another program
called the Arthritis Aquatic Program. This is conducted in a heated pool
under the watchful eye of specially trained individuals. Neither of these
programs are to be confused with range of motion or strengthening exercises
which may be prescribed by your doctor, but they add a new dimension to
activity for arthritis patients and they sound like fun. To find out which
program may be available in your area, contact your local chapter of the
Arthritis Foundation or write to the national office, Arthritis Foundation,
P.O. Box 19000, Atlanta, Georgia 30326, and request their brochure entitled
"Exercise and Your Arthritis". You may soon be able to join with all the
others who take my advice and make exercise a part of their plan for healthy
living.