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Physical Activity

Introduction to Exercise for Osteoarthritis

Introduction to Exercise for Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis. It affects more Canadians than all other forms of arthritis combined. While there currently is no cure for OA, there are actions you can take to help manage your symptoms and protect your joints. 

An increasing amount of research supports the effectiveness of activity and exercise as a self-management strategy for OA as well as many other chronic diseases.  Exercise and activity ARE the magic pills. Activity and exercise can help feed your joints.  They can also help to relieve stiffness, improve strength & energy, limit loss of muscle strength, help you manage your weight to reduce the load on joints, as well as provide a mood boost.

In the first video, Advanced Practice Physiotherapist Suzanne Denis provides an overview of osteoarthritis and how exercise and physical activity can help.  She explains the difference between physical activity and exercise, outlines some basic exercise principles, addresses common barriers to getting active, as well as provides tips to help you get started.  

In the second video, Advanced Practice Physiotherapist Suzanne Denis provides an overview of osteoarthritis of the hip and knee, shares key principles to help you get started on an exercise program, then talks you through a series of exercise demonstrations for your hips, legs and trunk muscles, as well as stretches for each area.

In the third video, Advanced Practice Physiotherapist Danielle McCormack provides an overview of osteoarthritis of the shoulder, then talks you through a series of shoulder exercise demonstrations including range of motion, stretching, strengthening, as well as scapular muscles stabilization exercises.