Living with arthritis can feel like a daily battle—stiff joints, chronic pain, and reduced mobility often make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. But according to renowned pain management specialist Jordan Sudberg, movement isn’t just possible for people with arthritis—it’s essential.
In fact, staying active can actually help reduce pain, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life. In this post, we’ll explore Dr. Sudberg’s expert insights on how to safely and effectively stay active while managing arthritis.
Why Movement Matters When You Have Arthritis
One of the biggest misconceptions about arthritis is that rest is the best remedy. While it’s important to avoid overexertion, Dr. Jordan Sudberg stresses that too much rest can actually make symptoms worse.
“Motion is lotion,” says Sudberg. “When you stop moving, joints become stiffer, muscles weaken, and pain intensifies. Gentle, consistent movement can help break that cycle.”
Jordan Sudberg’s Top Tips for Staying Active with Arthritis
Here are Dr. Sudberg’s key recommendations to help people with arthritis maintain an active, fulfilling lifestyle—without aggravating their joints:
1. Start Small and Stay Consistent
You don’t need to run a marathon. Sudberg recommends starting with low-impact activities like:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Gentle stretching
“Ten minutes a day is a great start,” he notes. “Consistency is more important than intensity.”
2. Choose Joint-Friendly Exercises
Dr. Sudberg emphasizes exercises that build strength and flexibility while minimizing joint strain:
- Water aerobics: Reduces joint pressure while increasing mobility
- Tai Chi and yoga: Improve balance, flexibility, and mental focus
- Resistance bands: Great for building strength without overloading joints
3. Warm Up Before, Cool Down After
A proper warm-up helps lubricate joints and prepare muscles. Dr. Sudberg suggests:
- Light dynamic stretches
- Slow walking or gentle range-of-motion exercises
Post-activity, a cool-down with static stretches can help reduce soreness and prevent stiffness.
4. Listen to Your Body
Pain should never be ignored—but also not feared. “Discomfort is normal when starting a new routine,” explains Sudberg. “But sharp, shooting pain or swelling means it’s time to rest or modify your approach.”
Tools and Treatments to Support Movement
In addition to exercise, Dr. Jordan Sudberg recommends a few adjunct therapies to support joint health and mobility:
- Physical therapy for personalized movement plans
- Pain management techniques such as guided injections or nerve blocks when needed
- Anti-inflammatory diets rich in omega-3s and antioxidants
- Supportive footwear and braces to reduce joint stress
These tools, combined with regular movement, form a comprehensive plan for managing arthritis more effectively.
Mental Health Matters, Too
Chronic pain can take a toll not just on your body—but your mental well-being. Sudberg reminds patients that mental resilience is key. “Depression and anxiety can worsen physical symptoms,” he says. “Staying active also boosts mood, energy, and confidence.”
He encourages mindfulness practices, support groups, and open conversations with healthcare providers as part of a holistic approach.
Final Thoughts: Keep Moving, Keep Living
Living with arthritis isn’t easy—but it doesn’t mean life has to slow down. With the right strategies, mindset, and expert support from specialists like Jordan Sudberg, staying active is not only possible—it’s empowering.
So take it one step, one stretch, one small win at a time. Because every bit of movement is a step toward freedom—and a better quality of life.