If you have been diagnosed with Psoriatic arthritis (PsA), you might be wondering what kind of exercise you can do without aggravating your condition, particularly when it comes to lifting weights. Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that involves both the itchy and scaly patches that come from psoriasis and the swollen joints of arthritis. It can be a mild case or more severe and may affect multiple joints throughout the body. While it can be uncomfortable and resting might seem like the best option, some gentle exercise can help you to manage the condition!
What Kind Of Exercises Can Work?
While overdoing, it can be a bad thing, the right kind of exercise can be great for not just alleviating some of your symptoms, but also allowing you to work out and stay healthy. Cardio exercise and stretching can be very beneficial. Still, strength and weight training, in particular, can be extremely useful for sufferers of PsA as it can help to build the muscle around joints. It is incredibly important to work with your doctor and a fitness expert if you are starting out for the first time, to make sure that the workouts you are performing are safe for you.
What Is Weight Training
Weight training involves a variety of exercises that incorporate bodyweight resistance, free weights, and weight machines. The resistance of weights helps to increase the force that you are exerting on your muscles and this process helps to strengthen them.
Is It Safe To Lift Weights With Psa?
Weightlifting is usually safe for people who have PsA. Still, it is dependent on the severity and specificity of your condition, so it is best to check with a doctor before starting a weight training program.
There are also benefits to weight lifting for PsA sufferers if done correctly! Some benefits can include:
- Increased bone strength
- Increased muscle strength that will help with joint support
- Increased strength and flexibility
- Reduction of stiffness and pain
- General health and wellness benefits
What To Check
While it can be very safe to weight lift, you should prepare yourself properly before working out to avoid aggravating your condition. It is important to:
- Warm-up effectively
- Keep the weights at an appropriate weight for your skillset
- Stay well hydrated
- Ensure that you are performing exercises with correct form
- Not workout during a flare-up or adapt the workout to be less harsh on your joints
- Take sufficient rest periods between workouts.
In conclusion, just because you have PsA does not mean that you cannot enjoy a weight training regime and build your strength. In fact, you might enjoy some benefits!
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