Dr. Andonian, a Duke rheumatologist and lifestyle medicine expert, dives into the powerful role of exercise in managing rheumatoid arthritis. He debunks myths around fragility, emphasizing that tailored exercise boosts immune health and combats accelerated aging. Listeners discover the importance of personalized workout plans, the concept of 'exercise snacks', and how gentle movement can alleviate fatigue. Dr. Andonian also highlights that exercise operates like medicine, potentially reducing medication dependence while enhancing overall health.
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Exercise Is Safe For Arthritis
Exercise is safe and beneficial for people with all types of arthritis, contrary to the “too fragile” myth.
Clinical evidence supports exercise as a core part of rheumatic disease care, not a risk for joint “wear and tear.”
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Build A Three-Part Exercise Routine
Include aerobic, strength/resistance, and mobility work in a balanced exercise program.
Use options like bands, machines, cycling, or pool exercises to build strength and fitness progressively.
insights INSIGHT
Exercise Affects Immune Cell Metabolism
Exercise influences immune cell metabolism and can improve inflammation and disease activity in RA.
Fitness (VO2 max) links to cellular immune changes, suggesting exercise affects immune function beyond joints.
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Together, they break down common myths about fragility, rest, and “wear and tear,” while explaining why tailored exercise programs are not only safe but essential. Dr. Andonian also offers practical guidance for managing fatigue, using slow progression, and finding trustworthy exercise resources. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand how movement can improve whole-body health with RA.
Episode at a glance:
1. Exercise is far more than “movement” - it directly supports immune health, slows accelerated aging, and improves disease activity in RA. Dr. Andonian explains how aerobic and strength training influence inflammation, cellular metabolism, and mitochondrial function in ways that go far beyond joint comfort.
2. RA is a whole-body immune disease, so exercise must be tailored, not avoided. Listeners learn why joints are actually a secondary issue in RA, why “too fragile to exercise” is a myth, and how the right mix of aerobic, strength, and mobility work can support the cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune systems.
3. There is no one-size-fits-all exercise plan; successful programs must be personalized. Dr. Andonian breaks down how arthritis type, disease location, comorbidities, and fatigue shape exercise prescriptions, and why slow progression and “exercise snacks” are essential for many patients.
Medical disclaimer:
All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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