Arthritis is a crippling condition, and what’s key to understand is that it isn’t a single condition; there are several different types.
In the spring issue of Fitpro magazine, we covered arthritis and how exercise can help relieve pain. In this week’s newsletter, senior lifestyle coach at Everybody Sport & Recreation, Kevin Morris, demonstrates the ESCAPE-pain programme. The programme is NICE approved and has been rolled out in many NHS facilities. Watch the video and hear from some of the individuals who have had a positive experience.
Overview of ESCAPE-pain
ESCAPE-pain is a funded, six-week, evidenced-based rehabilitation programme, sometimes called the ‘knee or hip class’, designed to reduce pain and disability for people with chronic joint pain or osteoarthritis.
The six-week programme includes:
- Receiving information, advice and support from qualified ESCAPE-pain instructors to help better manage chronic joint pain and lead a more active life
- Taking part in a group exercise programme, twice a week over six weeks, tailored to individual needs
- Socialising with and learning from other people living with this condition
- Being able to carry out normal activities, managing symptoms and being more active
The benefits of ESCAPE-pain:
- Reduces pain
- Improves physical function
- Improves mental well-being, self-confidence and self-esteem
You need to be committed to taking part in two classes per week over six weeks, returning for a final session on week 12.
For more information on the ESCAPE-pain programme, visit: escape-pain.org/
An instructor’s exercise prescription should focus on mobility, flexibility, balance and strengthening exercises, as well as cardiovascular activities.
Mobility exercises, such as leg abduction and heel slide, are crucial to the prevention and rehabilitation of the condition. The client should focus on mobility exercises that are related to their daily activities, and look to regain mobility before working on stability, strength and power to get them back to fitness. Remember, fitness is not just achieved in a fitness environment; encourage the client to take up more active daily-living tasks to boost their movements, therefore becoming more active.
Strengthening exercises such as straight leg raise or box step-up with good form are key activities that may help the client return to ‘normal living’, gaining them the necessary control, strength and power to do so.
Ensure your exercise prescription also includes some cardiovascular activities, or encourage some out-of-class exercise, such as swimming or walking, for the prevention of CHD and high blood pressure.
Become a member of Fitpro magazine to gain access to a specifically created circuit session by Kevin Morris: fitpro.com
