A lot of rheumatoid arthritis patients suffer from so much stiffness, pain and (amid a number of other symptoms) low energy, that they are inclined to avoid physical exercise and movement. Eventually they may be likely to stay away from stairs and even avoid walking altogether, becoming increasingly sedentary and stationary. A sufferer of rheumatoid arthritis may except this as a fact of life, but studies are finding that physical activity is absolutely critical in slowing down the degenerative process. Therefore, proper varieties of exercise may well spare your body from additional damage or at least contribute to postponing a health crisis due to this degenerative illness.

Although in the past doctors used to recommend plenty of rest to rheumatoid arthritis sufferers, it is now becoming apparent that physical movement is in fact much more significant, even essential. Sadly this new study has also discovered that nearly half of those affected are apt to be very inactive, to the point of risking dire consequences.

Joint flexibility, movement, strength are now shown to improve significantly as a result of regular, consistent exercise, and this applies at all age levels. While it might be a good idea for a person to take it easy during an acute, termporary flare-up - it is important for the person to get back on their exercise routine once the conditions return to their chronic level. Suitable exercise is generally understood to be moderate but regular, such as biking, swimming (the most effective activity for those whose rheumatoid arthritis is severe) and brisk walking.

Despite the fact that one feels pain and stiffness (and often fatigue), the person will have to fight the strong desire to just sit and take it easy. Resuming or beginning a regime of moderate exercise, to be undertaken daily for one hour (or at least for about 10 minutes several times a day) is essential for joint health. The added benefit of this activity is that while it helps fight the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it also keeps your heart, lungs, and other bodily organs healthy.

While it may be hard to get going on an work out routine, the benefits are clear and you will only be helping yourself in the long run. For a rheumatoid arthritis sufferer, there are so many good things that will happen with proper exercise and so many bad if you don't.