Did you know swimming can relieve joint pain?

Author: Dr. Tiffany T. Butler | Date: July 1, 2024 | Read Time: 3 minutes

Summer is here, the pools are open, and it’s time to go swimming! Did you know that swimming is not only a great way to cool off on hot days, it’s fun! Research shows that patients who suffer from joint dysfunction conditions such as osteoarthritis have an improvement in quality of life when they participate in water-based activities such as swimming or aquatic therapy.

Pain caused by osteoarthritis, a chronic degenerative joint disease, can result in decreased mobility, muscle weakness, and low quality of life. Performing low-impact exercises such as swimming can help to alleviate symptoms and improve muscle strength. As the muscles around your joints become stronger, you may notice performing normal activities such as walking and using stairs less painful and easier.

While taking medications does provide some patients with chronic joint pain some relief, water-based activities such as swimming can be just as effective, when performed for at least 30 minutes, at least two to three times per week. If you find it difficult or painful to perform weight-bearing activities such as squatting or climbing stairs, swimming or participating in aquatic exercises helps to relax tensed muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pressure off the joints.

Chronic joint pain can be debilitating, and when left untreated, may lead to disability, unemployment, mental health issues, and decreased quality of life. If you are suffering from chronic joint pain, make it your business to go swimming, if you can’t swim, take an aquatic exercise class and where a swim vest. Do whatever is necessary to maintain and/or improve your health.

Dr. Tiffany T. Butler (aka “The Pain Doctor”) is the Clinical Director of Harmonious Living Chiropractic: Fitness & Wellness Center, a dynamic healthcare facility located in the beautiful city of Baltimore, Maryland. As a highly sought-after Baltimore Chiropractor, Dr. Butler leads her team in providing scientific-based treatment procedures that alleviate body pain and enhance the quality of life of others. To learn more about Dr. Butler, view her profile here. Dr. Butler has teamed up with Team Ignite to make natural-based products such as CBD available to the global community.

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