As a licensed physical therapy provider, PRORehab frequently provides treatment for patients who suffer from joint pain or joint-related surgery.  In our experience, patients who are physically fit are likely to rehabilitate more quickly than an individual who lives a sedentary lifestyle and is “over-weight or obese.”  Medically, we know that being “over-weight” can lead to an array of preventive health problems including arthritis. 

Obesity has been associated with increased loading on joints and therefore an increased chance of degradation (breakdown) of joint tissue.  One pound of body-weight is equal to 6 pounds of force on your knees.  As tissue breaks down in joints, the effects are life-altering including increased pain and inflammation, loss of mobility, altered muscle function and decreased activity levels.  Failure of joint tissue may eventually lead to joint replacement surgery.  Reducing the load on your joints can assist in surgery recovery and can alter disease progression by protecting joint tissue.

However, a common dilemma that over-weight patients face is the struggle between exercise and joint pain.  How does one exercise when their joints already hurt?  The key is health education and safe physical activity programs that do not exacerbate pain.  Participating in both low-impact aerobic conditioning and strength training is important.  Swimming, water aerobics, cycling and walking are all excellent aerobic options.  To learn more about improving your overall physical health and reducing joint pain, contact one of our therapists a PRORehab location near you.