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 ;))
Btw, I can't find any evidence that swimming is bad for rheumatoid arthritis, and the PA Dept of Health cites a study from the Johns Hopkins U. Division of Rheumatology that swimming "is effective in reducing joint swelling and pain" for folks with RA.
My rheumatologist is all for swimming. He just tells me to "respect the pain". Since everyday is a battle with RA, I adjust my workouts to the amount of pain and stiffness I have in any particular joint.
Btw, I can't find any evidence that swimming is bad for rheumatoid arthritis, and the PA Dept of Health cites a study from the Johns Hopkins U. Division of Rheumatology that swimming "is effective in reducing joint swelling and pain" for folks with RA.
My rheumatologist is all for swimming. He just tells me to "respect the pain". Since everyday is a battle with RA, I adjust my workouts to the amount of pain and stiffness I have in any particular joint.