Until recently arthritis was thought of as a disease of old age but it is now known to be a young person's condition as it starts its relentless progression while you are in your 20's and 30's. Because there are no nerve endings in cartilage there is no pain in the early stages. You won't suspect anything is wrong until you are in your 40's or 50's when joint stiffness, reduced range of motion and tell tale twinges of pain become apparent. By then the damage has been done and the deterioration is fairly advanced.

Unfortunately, the solutions the medical profession offers are much less than ideal and often the cause of additional problems. For instance, when people with arthritis have to rely continually on painkillers, they become at risk for developing serious side effects.

Even the best treatments can't do much more than ease the pain and try to maintain the status quo in what are already degenerating joints until joint replacement becomes necessary.

Much of this degeneration of our joints is caused by lack of vigorous activity. Cartilage does not have a blood supply and relies instead on constant movement to keep fluid moving in and out of the joint to nourish it. This requires plenty of joint movement and to move a joint one has to move the body. The benefits of a balanced exercise program as part of a treatment program for managing arthritis are well known, but a recent survey revealed that 37% of people with arthritis get no exercise, despite the potential benefits. This includes people who are perfectly able to be physically active but choose not to.

It is understandable that many arthritis patients who live with chronic pain find it hard not to fall into the sedentary lifestyle trap. Pain causes a person to become less active, and less activity causes further weakness and increased pain. It is a sad vicious downward spiral with joint mobility deteriorating to the point of disability with the end result having to rely on other people just to perform the necessities of life.

It has long been recognized that exercise can reduce pain, improve physical function, improve muscle strength, and improve quality of life for people with arthritis. With so much to gain, what can possibly account for the low rate of participation among people with arthritis?

Those people burdened with chronic health conditions such as arthritis should consider strength training exercise to help open the door to better health, greater independence and a more fulfilling life. If you are new to exercise see a fitness professional at your local gym or fitness center who will design an effective set of exercises specifically for your physical condition. To treat and manage arthritis your exercise program needs to include at least 60% strength training exercise and be safe, effective and enjoyable

It may well mean that a person with arthritis is pushed out of their comfort zone, but it is imperative that they learn to adapt and recognize that they can and must remain active.

Try to see your health problem as a valid reason for exercise rather that as a barrier to exercise. Be prepared to develop the skills needed to take control of your health challenge and live a happier and healthier life.