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Reasons Why Weightlifting Can Help With Chronic Joint Pain

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If you struggle with constant pain in your hips, shoulders, knees, and back, the idea of working out might seem out of reach for you. If even walking causes pain, how can you pursue other types of physical exercise?

However, if you have a condition that makes joint pain worse, such as ankylosing spondylitis or arthritis, strengthening your muscles can help to reduce the pain. Here are some reasons to consider weightlifting for joint pain.

1. Stronger muscles help to prevent subluxations.

Many people experience joint pain due to muscle weakness. If you spend a lot of time sitting down, your muscles lose strength over time. Muscles provide support for ligaments and tendons that cushion your joints. Without the extra strength of well-developed muscle tissue, you may find your joint pain gets worse over time, instead of getting better.

2. Weightlifting can open the path to other activities.

If you want to be able to run but can't because of chronic pain, you might turn first to resistance training in order to build a basic foundation of muscular support. With stronger back, glute, and leg muscles, you will be able to endure more walking, running, biking, and swimming without experiencing as much pain. Even things like going up the stairs or carrying in groceries can be much more accessible to you by building your strength. 

3. Weightlifting can strengthen your spirit.

Lifting weights does not require running or jumping. Most exercises are performed without any explosive movement. However, the concentration lifting requires helps you to put mental energy into accomplishing things that are difficult. You may find that your mental resolve and toughness improve as your physical strength improves. On days when your joint pain is bad due to a flare-up, this training can help you keep a winning mindset. 

4. Weightlifting is good for your bones and tissues too.

Some medical conditions that cause joint pain actually weaken the bones. You can counter this weakness by resistance training frequently. The increased load from weights signal to your body the need for stronger, denser bones. The bone repairs itself to be slightly tougher than it was before. Over time, your muscles will not only be stronger but your skeletal system, including connecting tissues, will also benefit. Weightlifting also reduces inflammation in the body — inflammation can often be the cause of joint pain. 

Keep in mind that injury can always happen if you are not careful. Start slowly with weightlifting, and always begin with a certified weight coach who can teach you proper form and adjust movements based on your current health. 

For more tips on how to help with joint pain, reach out to a local medical health professional.


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