Which Exercise Is Best for Arthritis?

Q:  I am between jobs and have no medical insurance and therefore have no other access to a medical opinion. I was diagnosed as having degenerative disc disease due to arthritis. The lower portion of my spine, my left hip and both knees already show signs of deterioration. I have chronic back pain and often walking is painful. Naprosyn helps me tolerate my condition.

My primary concern at this time is my lack of exercise because of my discomfort. My problems are compounded by my weight. I am 5'4" and tip the scales at approximately 250 lbs. To top all of this off, I have a mild asthmatic condition (no meds required for over 2 years). I want to begin an exercise program, but am afraid of excessive stress on my joints and don't wish to bring on an asthma attack.

Is bicycle riding a good form of exercise for these joints? My belief is that I can exercise the joints without the stress of putting my full weight on them as I would by even walking. I realize that I would have to be careful to avoid exerting myself on ozone alert days or when the heat and humidity could affect my respiratory system. There is a large city park with biking trails just 5-6 blocks away, and my boyfriend lives about 12 blocks away. All of these are incentives to buy a bike. What do you think about my plan? Is it safe?

A:  Biking is excellent exercise and would be easier on your back, but may still stress your knees. Be sure to wear a helmet when you ride. You can get fairly good ones for $30 to $50.

I have another suggestion for you. Water aerobics is something I recommend to people who have arthritis or are overweight. In the water, your joints are supported, you burn calories, and you tone your muscles by moving against the resistance of the water. You can also do this in the winter, whereas biking is too dangerous and too cold. You don't need to know how to swim to participate. Most of the athletics clubs and Y's in the city have good programs.

If you live in Milwaukee County, you should see if you qualify for the General Assistance Medical Plan that will provide you with medical care until you get employment. Good luck with your job hunting, arthritis, and weight loss!

For more information on this topic, see the HealthLink article Arthritis and Exercise.

"Dear Doctor" is a compilation of patient questions answered by doctors from the Medical College of Wisconsin.