Exercise in pregnancy with arthritis - Mary Grant

Описание: Mary Grant, senior physiotherapist, at Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services, Harold’s Cross provides expert advice on the importance of exercise for women living with inflammatory arthritis who are thinking of having a family.

According to Mary, for people with inflammatory arthritis, they often find it hard to engage with exercise, and some of the barriers can be pain, and also fear of causing damage by exercising. People with inflammatory arthritis are more prone to developing heart disease and losing muscle and bone mass. Exercise is really important in preventing these.

Minor discomforts are common in pregnancy. Exercise helps deal with those discomforts, keeping the pregnant woman strong, helping her sleep better, as well as keeping her healthy in body and mind during the pregnancy. Exercise during pregnancy also helps recovery in the postpartum period.

Exercise during pregnancy as well increases the blood flow to the placenta which helps the baby's growth and development.

For someone not used to exercising, suitable low-impact exercised include walking, swimming, exercise bike and light weights. Those who exercise regularly can continue with their usual routine; although it's normal to slow down a bit as the pregnancy progresses.

Further information about pregnancy and arthritis is available in the Arthritis Ireland booklet on this topic, available on their website.