I believe swimming is good for people with arthritis (though there seems to be saying that people with rheumatoid arthritis should avoid swimming?) . I wonder if it helps prevent it? Are lifelong swimmers less likely to develop arthritis in old age?
Funny how I thought of this question. Yesterday I saw my friend's cat. She used to be a very active cat, but now at 15 she's walking like an old lady and had pains due to arthritis. It was sad to see her in this state knowing what she's like when younger. :( (My question pertains to human beings, though ;))
About 14 years ago I broke both of my arms at my elbows. Looking at x-rays you can see wires, screws and what seems to be a pulley in each arm. As a result of the break I don't have full range of motion in either arm, and I've developed arthritis in both elbows. Swimming in cold water makes my elbows HURT. Sometimes the cold water is so painful I feel a little quesie. Water temp of 80 is about as 'cool' as I can tolerate before I'm in pain. Yes, swimming helps keep my achie breakie gimp arms from becoming stiffer. And yes, I have to respect the pain as well. If I do really long workouts, or a lot of pull sets I will pay for it... can usually feel the consequences before I get out of the pool.
Lainey
About 14 years ago I broke both of my arms at my elbows. Looking at x-rays you can see wires, screws and what seems to be a pulley in each arm. As a result of the break I don't have full range of motion in either arm, and I've developed arthritis in both elbows. Swimming in cold water makes my elbows HURT. Sometimes the cold water is so painful I feel a little quesie. Water temp of 80 is about as 'cool' as I can tolerate before I'm in pain. Yes, swimming helps keep my achie breakie gimp arms from becoming stiffer. And yes, I have to respect the pain as well. If I do really long workouts, or a lot of pull sets I will pay for it... can usually feel the consequences before I get out of the pool.
Lainey
