Osteoarthritis of the knee, also called “degenerative arthritis,” is a painful, often age-related issue where the cartilage that cushions your joints wears away. This results in consistent pain, stiffness, and swelling that impacts every aspect of your life. Part of at-home joint care is performing exercises to reduce pain and maintain your range of motion. Here are several to use alongside your doctor’s advice.

What Exercises Can Help Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

1. Swimming

Swimming is ideal for both stretching and strength-building. It’s far less stressful on your joints since you’re buoyant and because it doesn’t restrict range of motion. Instead, the water creates total resistance around the leg that works your joint safely. 

Start simply by just holding onto the side of the pool and treading water. Go through various motions like walking or running to exercise your knee.

2. Walking

Joint care exercises don’t have to be complicated. Simply walking every day provides plenty of exercise for your knee. It stretches your joint out to prevent stiffness and weakness. 

However, it's important to invest in a comfortable pair of shoes. They should provide ample arch support and have plenty of padding to absorb any shock from radiating up your legs and stressing your knee joints.

3. Squats

Another way to rebuild strength that you can do anywhere is bodyweight squats. Spread your feet shoulder-width apart and turn your feet outward slightly. 

Bend your knees while keeping your back straight and heels on the ground. Squat as low as you can and slowly return to a standing position. Repeat 10 times before taking a break, and then complete several more sets of 10.

For professional joint care in the Riverdale, GA, area, contact Regenerative Joint Clinics. This medical clinic provides extensive joint care services ranging from noninvasive knee surgery to knee injections and rehabilitation, and these medical providers will also help develop a personalized at-home care plan to help you on your journey to wellness. Call (470) 895-0610 to schedule an exam, and visit their website to learn more about their services.