Osteoarthritis (OA) can be a tough opponent, and the symptoms and challenges of OA can sometimes take people out of the game. If you’ve been sidelined from your normal exercise routine or from activities you once enjoyed, take heart. You aren’t the first person with OA to stop exercising or to give up a favorite sport when the going got tough or OA got in the way. Some experts call people in this situation “retired from exercise.”

The good news is that you don’t have to accept “retirement” from an active life of exercise, activities, and sports that you enjoy—and you shouldn’t. You may need to adjust your routine or activities or take up some new ones, but you should not let OA prevent you from reaping the healthful benefits as well as joys of physical activity.

Where and how to start

To get moving again, first review the suggested tips for how to plan for success. Then, consider the following questions:

• What activities are you doing now? If you have been inactive or doing very little, it is important to follow the advice to “start low and go slow.” Studies show that the risk of joint or muscle injury is directly related to a sudden increase in level of activity.
   
• What are your physical activity goals? Setting a specific, personal goal to help you get back in the game. Start slow and increase in small increments.
   
• Is your body ready? You may need to start an intensive strengthening program to improve joint support and stabilization before jumping back in.
   
• Can you do what you used to do? Stick with your favorite activities, if at all possible. But you may need to adjust your approach. For example, switch from singles tennis to doubles. Or try a related but more joint-friendly activity, such as racquetball. If you need to, challenge yourself to try something new. Here are some ideas

Next: How to Keep Moving or Move More