There is irrefutable
evidence that exercise benefits most aspects of health.
Exercise is an essential part of therapeutic approach for arthritis.
Pain and stiffness of the joints tend to discourage patients from exercising.
However without exercise, joints can become even more stiff and painful.
This happens because exercise actually keeps bones, muscles and joints healthy.
It is important to
keep muscles as strong as possible because the stronger the muscles and
tissues around joints are, the better they will be able to support and
protect those joints.
If people do not exercise, their muscles become weaker,
and their bones can become osteoporotic.
Exercise pumps blood and body fluid through to the muscles, tendons and the
joints,
which will facilitate healing.
(Dr Paul Lam)
Joint problems
Arthritis is a joint-related condition that affects
billions of people as they grow older.
It typically involves pain, inflammation and stiffness.
What causes arthritis?
People aren't entirely sure.
The condition cannot be cured but it often responds to treatment.
Some possible causes of arthritis: obesity, repeated joint injuries and
stress.
Diet
Diet
is also an important consideration.
A balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables will be
helpful.
Treatment
In addition to conventional medical treatment, there are
alternative therapies available - such as tai chi.
Tai chi
The body must be exercised carefully, with a clear
emphasis upon safety and relaxation.
Our school of tai chi is ideal for people
with arthritis because we keep certain considerations in mind at all times:
Natural stances - you should not stretch, stride or over-reach at any time
Smoothness - the movements must be gentle, flowing and relaxed
Medium frame & small circle - the postures are natural and the waist turns are gentle
Stepping - agile footwork must be used rather than lengthy steps
Softness - muscle tension must be avoided at all costs
Balance – stability-awareness training and strength-building
These factors combine to produce a very gentle yet subtly demanding workout for people who suffer from arthritis.
Dr Paul Lam, an expert in using tai
chi
for arthritis advocates a
soft approach rather than 'no pain, no gain'.
He emphasises the importance of:
Higher stances
A lot of qigong to improve breathing, relaxation and healing
Looking deeper into the art of tai chi in order to improve students awareness and understanding
Dr
Lam has written an informative
book
on the subject and released a number of videos.
He has the support of arthritis foundations worldwide.
Quality
Students are encouraged
to learn what their natural range of movement is and to work safely within
their capacity.
Most people put their body under
subtle stress throughout the day without realising it;
the strain builds up gradually and eventually causes damage.
It is important to
improve existing mobility and
strength
without making things worse.
Awareness is essential when practising
tai chi;
the student must learn to use the optimal body structure at all times.
This structure will ensure that no adverse wear and tear occurs.
Correct use of the body when lifting or applying pressure is also
considered.
Even a small period of home practice
every day will
begin to improve your health.
Page created 3 January 2001