Exercise Machines for Arthritis: Gentle Workouts for Hip Pain

Arthritic hips can be a very debilitating problem. Not only do they cause pain, but they can also cause a limited range of motion.

Significance

• As you age, arthritis and weaker bones become exacerbated. It is important to exercise to keep bones strong and to keep a good range of motion.

Function

• If you have arthritic hips, do not put too much pressure on them or do any repetitive jarring motions like running. Exercise machines do not cause a major impact.

Recumbent Bikes

• Recumbent bikes are often used for rehabilitation for people with pain such as arthritic hips. When using a recumbent bike, you sit in a seat that has a backrest. The pedals are out in front of you, so the weight of the body does not cause as much pressure (see Resources).

Rowing Machines

• Rowing machines work the upper and lower body at the same time. Just as the recumbent bike, it is non-impactful to the joints. The seat can slide or it can be locked.

Ergometer

• An arm ergometer is a machine where you sit on a seat, hold on to two handles and turn them around in a circular motion. The motion is the same as riding a bike except it is for the arms (see Resources).