Exercise: The Unexpected Frontline Treatment for Arthritic Joints
New evidence suggests regular, guided physical activity should be a first-line treatment for osteoarthritis to reduce pain and improve mobility, often outperforming temporary fixes like drugs or injections. While some patients are steered toward surgery, many benefit from supervised exercise that strengthens the whole joint and may lower systemic inflammation. Aerobic activities such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling tend to yield the largest short-term pain relief, with yoga, tai chi, pilates, and resistance training also helping. The key is a sustainable, professionally guided plan—the best type of exercise is the one a person can consistently do—to manage symptoms and potentially reduce the need for invasive procedures over the long term.