Exercise program offers pain relief

The Arthritis Foundation Exercise ProgramSM will be offered starting Friday, May 4 at the Warren County Administrative Office. Developed by physical therapists specifically for people with arthritis, this low-impact, joint-safe exercise program has been documented to help decrease arthritis pain and relieve stiffness while increasing flexibility and range of motion.

The program will be taught by taught by Hilda Lytle, Extension Agent in Family & Consumer Sciences, who has completed in-depth training on arthritis and the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program.

During the eight sessions, participants will go through a series of gentle movements and activities designed to increase mobility and range of motion. This low-impact class is suitable for every fitness level and can be taken either sitting down or standing.

“In addition to reducing pain and stiffness, the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program helps people with arthritis keep joints flexible, maintain muscle strength and build overall stamina.” Results are backed by research studies. In one study, individuals who attended the class for four months reduced their pain by 24 percent and increased confidence in their ability to continue activities by 22 percent.

If you think you have arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation urges you to seek an early and specific diagnosis. With more that 100 forms of arthritis and related diseases, a specific diagnosis is critical because each form requires a different treatment plan.

Pre-registration for the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is necessary and enrollment is limited. Classes will be held on Tuesdays and Fridays beginning at 9 a.m. with the exception of the second class, which will be held on Monday, May 7 (instead of Tuesday). The registration deadline is Thursday, May 3. Cost of class is $15 for all eight sessions. For more information contact Hilda W. Lytle at 473-8484. Before starting any exercise program, always check with your physician.