The Best Approach to Rheumatoid Arthritis and Exercise
If you want to manage rheumatoid arthritis safely and effectively, consider exercising. Burleigh Biomechanics offers a great solution for this. It goes beyond a typical rheumatoid arthritis workout. Our approach is grounded in movement science to help people with arthritis regain confidence, reduce joint pain, and improve quality of life.
Why Exercise Matters for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Many people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) hesitate to start exercising due to fears of worsening joint damage or discomfort. However, research has consistently shown that the right type of exercise can:
Reduce inflammation and joint pain
Improve range of motion and flexibility
Build muscle strength to support weakened joints
Prevent cardiovascular diseases often associated with RA
Boost your ability to perform daily activities comfortably
The Right Program for People with RA
At Burleigh Biomechanics, we tailor programs based on each individual’s joint health and movement capability. Instead of recommending generic aerobic exercises or impact exercises that may worsen pain and stiffness, we focus on low-impact, scientifically designed movement strategies.
Your sessions may include:
Strength training to safely strengthen the muscles around affected joints
Controlled range of motion work to keep joints mobile without aggravation
Integrative techniques to reduce joint instability and improve coordination
Elements of tai chi-inspired balance and breath-work
Research-Backed Approach
Many studies show that people with rheumatoid arthritis who follow structured exercise programs see big improvements. They experience less pain, better joint function, and improved overall well-being. A 2021 study showed that strength training with low-impact aerobic exercises helps reduce joint pain and stiffness. It also improves range of motion and muscle strength in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
However, at Burleigh Biomechanics, we take this further by integrating cutting-edge movement science with lifestyle interventions to address inflammation and joint dysfunction holistically.
Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle + Functional Training
Recent studies show that systemic inflammation plays a critical role in RA progression and flare-ups. That’s why, alongside biomechanically sound exercise programs, we implement anti-inflammatory dietary protocols aimed at reducing the inflammatory load on the body. We guide our clients to eat nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diets. These diets help support joint health, boost immune function, and reduce pain and stiffness.
In addition, we ground our movement strategies in gait mechanics. Research highlights the importance of restoring proper walking and movement patterns to prevent compensations that could exacerbate joint wear and tear. At Burleigh Biomechanics, we use gait assessments to create individualized programs that:
Reduce internal joint stress by improving fascial slings and tensioning systems
Rebalance muscular asymmetries
Optimize spinal and pelvic mechanics
We focus on postural and gait imbalances. This helps people with RA reduce joint pain over time. It also improves their mobility, stability, and resilience.
Combining targeted functional training with an anti-inflammatory lifestyle can greatly improve signs of inflammation, like CRP and ESR. It can also lower the need for pain medications and enhance quality of life.
In short, our clients are not just exercising. They are rebuilding the basics of healthy movement and lowering inflammation from within.
State-of-the-Art Assessment for Rheumatoid Arthritis at Burleigh Biomechanics
At Burleigh Biomechanics, our approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is grounded in cutting-edge assessment techniques. We don’t just look at the symptoms; we evaluate the full range of factors affecting your movement, including your posture, gait, muscle imbalances, and joint mobility. This assessment helps us see the specific challenges your body faces. It also shows how RA affects your daily life.
By applying the Functional Patterns methodology, we focus on creating a personalized movement plan tailored to your specific needs. This approach ensures that every exercise is both effective and safe, allowing you to regain strength and mobility without increasing your risk of injury.
Our regression of exercises means we meet you where you are. We adjust the intensity and complexity of each movement to match your current physical condition. This targeted progression, based on your assessment, helps you build resilience while protecting vulnerable areas, such as affected joints.
Through this state-of-the-art, individualized process, we guide you towards better functionality with less pain, empowering you to manage your RA with confidence.
Beyond Traditional Workouts
Unlike a standard rheumatoid arthritis workout, we go beyond isolated muscle building. Our practitioners help people with arthritis:
Restore optimal gait patterns
Correct postural imbalances
Improve fascial tension to reduce unnecessary stress on the joints
The result? A safer, more holistic way to strengthen the body without flaring up RA symptoms.
Your Next Step
If you are starting an exercise program for RA or have had trouble with gyms, Burleigh Biomechanics can help. Our team helps people with RA regain control of their movement. We aim to reduce pain and improve their quality of life.