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Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Relapsing Polychondritis? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

See if it is advisable for people with Relapsing Polychondritis to practice sports and which ones are the most recommended if you have Relapsing Polychondritis

Relapsing Polychondritis sports

Relapsing Polychondritis (RP) is a rare autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the cartilage in the body, causing inflammation and damage. While exercise is generally beneficial for overall health, it is important to approach it cautiously when affected by RP.



Engaging in regular exercise can have several benefits for individuals with RP. It can help improve cardiovascular health, maintain muscle strength, enhance flexibility, and boost mood. However, it is crucial to consider the individual's specific condition and consult with a healthcare professional before starting or modifying any exercise routine.



Low-impact exercises are generally recommended for individuals with RP. These activities minimize stress on the joints and cartilage while still providing the benefits of physical activity. Some suitable exercises include:




  • Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be easily adjusted to an individual's fitness level. It helps improve cardiovascular health and can be done outdoors or on a treadmill.

  • Swimming: Swimming is an excellent option as it is gentle on the joints and provides a full-body workout. It helps improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and flexibility.

  • Cycling: Cycling, whether on a stationary bike or outdoors, is a low-impact exercise that can be adjusted to the desired intensity. It helps strengthen leg muscles and improve cardiovascular health.

  • Yoga: Yoga focuses on gentle stretching, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. It can help improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.



When engaging in exercise with RP, it is important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. Start with shorter durations and lower intensities, gradually increasing as tolerated. It is crucial to pay attention to any signs of increased pain, joint swelling, or fatigue, and adjust the exercise accordingly.



Warm-up exercises are essential before starting any physical activity. They help prepare the body for exercise, increase blood flow to the muscles, and reduce the risk of injury. Gentle stretching exercises targeting the major muscle groups can be performed as part of the warm-up routine.



Cooling down after exercise is equally important. It allows the body to gradually return to its resting state and helps prevent muscle soreness. Cooling down can involve light stretching exercises and deep breathing.



It is crucial to avoid high-impact activities that put excessive stress on the joints and cartilage, such as running, jumping, or contact sports. These activities can potentially worsen the inflammation and damage associated with RP.



Remember, every individual with RP is unique, and the exercise recommendations may vary. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist who can provide personalized guidance based on the individual's specific condition and overall health.


Diseasemaps
20 answers
Walking helps. Light exercise. If we do to much we get down for a few days.

Posted Apr 26, 2017 by Freya 1000
Again everyone is different as rp affects different parts of the body.

Posted Apr 27, 2017 by Lisa Matthews (Lissy) 4800
It is a must. Best exercise is swimming and yoga.

Posted Apr 27, 2017 by Laoura 2050
I would love to be able to walk but it appears that I now have done sort of autoimmune disease affecting my nerves and muscles of my legs. I am waiting to see a neurologist. I experience fasciculations, pain and pins and needles in my legs and arms at the moment, do I am unable to walk much.

Posted Aug 9, 2017 by Louise C 1450
I believe it is. I was once an avid gardener, equestrian & loved sports but RP changed most of that for me. I now walk, swim & anything that I feel helps me stay active without causing increased pain.

Posted Aug 14, 2017 by Susan 2000
I believe in exercise, but I when I am in a flare, I find it impossible. My body needs a lot of rest when I am flaring. It is difficult to get up and down from a chair. I don't sleep well during a flare. So I try to rest until the flare is over.

Posted Sep 1, 2017 by Diane 2050
I have been able to do a regular exercise regimen (began in February), although there are times I need to rest from a previous day if it was a tough workout.
My knees and hips are the worst, but sometimes my elbows and shoulders can be an issue. There are times after exercising - next day, its difficult to get up from a sitting position or do stairs - very sore. But I think it is important to keep in motion and do all I can to keep myself strong. Sometimes I think others in my class are like, oh, she is not here again. I average 2-3 days a week vs, the full 4, but its really all I can do. I am just happy to be doing more than I was!

Posted May 13, 2019 by Laurie C. 100
Low impact regular exercise if possible

Posted Jun 11, 2019 by [email protected] 1000
Mild exercise. Sitting work and mild walking

Posted Jun 12, 2019 by Tmrcarlson 3550
Exercise is recommended in everyone’s daily activities whether they have relapsing polychondritis or not. However it is up to the individual what they can manage dependant on their disease control, fatigue and pain and joint involvement. Some attend a physical therapist for assistance, some do hydrotherapy, some walk and many go to the gym.

Posted Jun 12, 2019 by Kaz 3000
It's not advisable to exercise during a flare, however gentle walking and flexing exercises are beneficial.

Posted Dec 30, 2019 by Leanne 2500
It depends on the persons symptoms and where the disease affects their body. Keeping moving gently where possible is always advisable,

Posted Dec 30, 2019 by Carrie 3050
when I suffer a relapse, I take prednisone and resume normal activity within two hours but I do not exert.

Posted Mar 20, 2022 by shlawver 2500
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I can only do water aerobics...

Posted Oct 2, 2017 by Ana Luiza Bottura 2000
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Bike or walk

Posted Oct 2, 2017 by Kevin Ochoa 2000
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Yes, but with a low intensity and with fairly often. I seem to be good at the Pilates and swimming.

Posted Oct 2, 2017 by cmomo 600
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It is always good to the sport, to strengthen muscles and keep us active.
I believe that the best sport is practiced in the water. But it's either that the patient be able to do.

Posted Oct 2, 2017 by Glaucia 1800
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Sport is always good, even if it's things as well smples, only the fact of the person get around in ja is something valid. In my case I practical aerobic exercises of medium to high intensity, I try to do 5 to 6 times a week, for me it works. I confess that before knowing this diagnosis not take care much of my health as now.

Posted Oct 2, 2017 by Carolina 300
Translated from spanish Improve translation
Swimming if you are found with forces

Posted Oct 2, 2017 by Sandra 950

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