When your joints are stiff and painful, exercise might be the last thing on your mind. That said, exercising regularly is one of the best things you can do to treat your rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here are some ways it helps:
- People who work out live longer, with or without rheumatoid arthritis.
- Regular exercise can cut down on RA pain.
- Your bones will be stronger. Thinning of the bones can be a problem with rheumatoid arthritis, especially if you need to take steroids.
- Stronger muscles help you move better.
- Your mood and energy level will benefit.