I was recently diagnosed with osteoarthritis and I have a question.

[potone]

I have it in my spine and it is acute. I am getting treatment from a chiropractor now. He told me that when my condition improves, I will need to do some form of stretching exercise regularly, such as yoga, pilates or tai chi. I have done yoga off and on in the past, but I have never done pilates or tai chi. I was wondering if those of you who have the same condition have tried any or all of the above forms of exercise, and, if so, which you found helpful. I thank you in advance for your responses.

[Suich]

1. I have it in my spine and hands.

Hands don't bother me too much. I went to a physical therapist for my back and she gave me some mostly stretching exercises for my back and they work great!

Google "back exercises" and you'll get lots of info.

Most of mine are done on my back and take about 10 mins. a day. It makes a huge difference.

Good luck!

[fadedrose]

2. I went to a neurologist

for a pinched nerve, and while I was at it, got shots for my osteoarthritis. I was lucky and got relief for quite a while, but more places got sore. They do a real good job on carpal tunnel - thumb. Had a terrible time on the computer after just a half-hour. now I could play games for as long as my brain lets me...

But I'm 76, and just started the shots about 3-4 years ago. I did many exercises till then. A knee replacement doesn't help with exercises and few injuries along the way, well, you know, it just goes on and on.....

[The empressof all]

3. I use exercises I learned in PT

They are helpful but for me anyway they don't prevent the "bad" days. Gentle stretching feels good. I also use resistance bands to help my core and ride a recumbent bike to keep the knees lubricated. I have arthritis and stenosis in my spine, knees, hips, shoulders and hands. It sucks.....Marijuana helps and I use pain meds as last resort. I have had the shots. The one in the back helped relieve the excruciating pain but I was told the more you have them the less effective. My knee replacement was terrific...My hip only Meh.

[ehrnst]

4. I have some issues with my shoulders, and Tai Chi helps immensely.