Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Walking helps osteoarthritis

"Progressive walking" combined with glucosamine sulfate supplementation has been shown to improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis, according to journal Arthritis Research and Therapy. Researchers found that patients who walked at least two bouts of 1500 steps each on three days of the week reported significantly less arthritis pain, and significantly improved physical function. All patients received the dietary supplement for six weeks, after which they continued to take the supplement during a 12-week progressive walking program.

The program, called Stepping Out, includes a walking guide; a pedometer; weekly log sheets and a weekly planner, all intended to help patients adopt the exercise regime. Seventeen patients were randomly assigned to walk five days per week, while the remaining 19 were instructed to walk three days a week. The team found that both groups achieved significant improvement in their symptoms, however being encouraged to walk five days a week was not more effective than being encouraged to walk three days.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Treatment for osteoarthritis pain is patient specific. What works well for one may not work for another. It is a matter of trial and error to see what works best for you.