Arthritis affects more than 50 million adults of all ages and is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Common arthritis joint symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion. Severe arthritis can result in chronic pain, inability to do daily activities and make it difficult to walk or climb stairs. Arthritis can cause permanent joint changes. These changes may be visible, such as knobby finger joints, but often the damage can only be seen on X-ray.
There are many things that can be done to preserve joint function, mobility and quality of life. Learning about the disease and treatment options, making time for physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are essential. Arthritis is a commonly misunderstood disease. Regular physical activity is an important strategy for relieving pain and maintaining or improving function for people with arthritis. Despite that, people with arthritis are less likely to be physically active than those with arthritis.
The Marion Family YMCA offers numerous classes for those with arthritis such as Tai Chi. Tai Chi helps improve balance, reduce stress and offers arthritis pain relief. It is especially helpful to those with osteoarthritis and can be done from a chair or standing. Instructors are certified from The Tai Chi for Health Institute and this class is free for members and is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:05-12:35PM.
The Marion YMCA also offers Land Arthritis class on Tuesday and Thursdays from 11:30-12:00PM as a free benefit for members. This class is a low impact physical activity program proven to reduce stiffness. The routines include gentle range of motion exercises that are suitable for every fitness level. This class is led by a certified Arthritis Foundation instructor.
Aquatic Exercise Association trained instructors teach classes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:00-10:45AM and Monday and Wednesday from 5:15-6:00PM. This class is taught in the small pool and the purpose is to help relieve stiffness and pain. We also work to improve strength and range of motion, while building endurance and flexibility. This class is $16 per 7 week session for members and $60 for non-members.
For additional information on any of these programs at the Marion Family YMCA, contact 740-725-9622 or visit marionymca.org.
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