Expert: Daphne E Brown MS CPRP - 5/24/2005

Question
Hi.  I am 67 years old, retired, and living in the country.  I have always been active, used to run until arthritis in my knees prevented me about 15 years ago.  Since then I have tried to walk a mile at least several times a week  for general fitness.  I also do yoga and exercise with dumbells.  My knees have deteriorated to the point that I cannot continue the walking program and I am concerned about a loss of fitness.  Is there something else I could do to take the place of walking?  Swimming is not available.  How harmful would a more sedentary lifestyle be for me?  I am of normal weight and generally in good health.

Answer
Mary,
I really hate to hear about your knees.  My main suggestion for folks with joint issues is to exercise in the water, but I understand that is not an an option for you.  To answer your questions

**Is there something else I could do to take the place of walking? Visit these websites to see if there are some ideas that would be helpful to you in your situation

http://medicalreporter.health.org/tmr1095/arthritis1095.html
http://learningaboutarthritis.com/Arthritis_and_Exercise.html
http://www.niams.nih.gov/hi/topics/arthritis/arthexfs.htm
http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/296_art.html
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/health/qa-arthex/t_arthex.htm


**How harmful would a more sedentary lifestyle be for me?
I would never recommend a sedentary lifestyle for anyone, so unless you are bed-ridden or your doctor says so, exhaust your efforts in finding a solution.  If you haven't done so already, consult with your physician and/or get a referral to a specialist who understands arthritis and exercise.  Also contact the Arthritis Foundation for help in your area.

Arthritis Foundation
1330 West Peachtree Street
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: 404-872-7100 or 800-283-7800 (free of charge) or
call your local chapter (listed in the telephone directory)
www.arthritis.org

I hopes this gives you some resources so that you can get some good direction for yourself.  Hang in there.

Sincerely, Daphne