Rheumatism is a chronic self-immunological disease, which is important for improving the function of the patient’s joint, reducing pain and improving the overall quality of life. However, because of the inflammation and vulnerability of the patient ‘ s joints, the following aspects require special attention in the exercise.
Before carrying out a physical exercise programme, the patient must consult a professional doctor or a rehabilitation therapist and conduct a full physical examination and joint function assessment. Doctors develop individualized sports programmes based on the patient ‘ s seriousness, the condition of the joint and the overall functioning of the body. For example, in cases where the disease is active and there is a high degree of corrosive pain, it may be suggested that some simple joint activity exercises be undertaken first, while in cases where the condition is relatively stable, the motor strength and type can be increased appropriately. At the same time, the patient is required to prepare appropriate sports equipment, such as comfortable and well-supported sneakers, to reduce the impact of the joints; and to choose loose, soft sports clothing to facilitate physical activity.
2. The choice of mode of movement should give priority to low-intensity, low-impact sports. Swimming is one of the most recommended ways of moving, and the floating power of the water reduces the burden of joints, while the body muscles are able to exercise, helping to increase muscle strength around the joints and improve joint stability. Walking is also a simple method of exercise, and the patient can gradually adjust the pace and distance of walking to his or her own situation. In addition, sports such as yoga and Tai Chi, which focus on body flexibility and co-ordination training, are more relaxed and, through specific pose and breathing exercises, can help patients relax their physical and psychological well-being, relieve joint pain and increase the range of joint activities. It needs to be noted, however, that high-impact movements, such as running, jumping, climbing, etc., should be avoided, which may exacerbate wear and tear at joints.
Motion intensity and time control Movement intensity should be gradual and avoid overwork and joint damage. In general, the patient can start with a short exercise of 15 – 20 minutes at a time and gradually increase to 30 – 60 minutes at a time as the body ‘ s ability to adapt increases. In the exercise, care should be taken to manage the intensity, and it is appropriate to have a mild fever at the joints during the exercise, a sense of fatigue but a quick recovery after rest. For example, when walking, the pace can begin at a slow pace, gradually accelerating, but not to the extent of asthma. At the same time, the number of weekly campaigns is better 3 – 5 times, which gives joints and enough rest time for recovery and repair.
4. Protection of joints in the exercise shall be given special attention during the exercise. Avoiding long periods of same position or excessive repetition of a joint movement and preventing joint labour. For example, long-term fistshakes may place additional burdens on the hand joints and should be properly worn into the relaxing. In case of increased joint pain in the exercise, the exercise should be stopped immediately and the pain should be alleviated by rest, ice dressing, etc. When ice is put on, a towel can be used to wrap the ice for 15 – 20 minutes each to mitigate arthritis and swelling. For some heavy joints, such as knee joints, hip joints, etc., assistive devices, such as knee protection, cane, etc., can be used during exercise to reduce joint pressure and provide additional support and protection.
After the exercise has been completed, full stretching and relaxation is essential to reduce muscle stress and joint rigidity. Patients can exercise a full-body stretch, focusing on the muscles around the joints involved in the exercise. For example, in the case of stretching after leg movement, a standing position can be used to hold the same ankle with one hand, to keep the heel as close as possible to the hip, to feel the stretching of the front muscle of the thigh, and to keep each move 15 – 30 seconds. In addition, ensuring adequate rest and sleep is essential for physical recovery and contributes to the aversion of arthritis and tissue rehabilitation. At the same time, properly replenished moisture and nutrients, such as proteins, vitamins, etc., provide energy support to the body and promote the recovery and regeneration of muscles and joints.
People with rheumatism arthritis are guided by the above-mentioned concerns in their exercise, and are able to take full advantage of the positive effects of the exercise on the rehabilitation of the disease in conditions of safety, to enhance the function of the joint and to improve their ability to take care of themselves and their quality of life. It should be borne in mind, however, that in the event of any discomfort or doubt in the course of the campaign, the doctor or professional rehabilitation should be contacted in a timely manner in order to adjust the sport programme to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
