The Power of Exercise Medicine in Arthritis: How Movement Improves Outcomes.
Arthritis affects millions of Australians, imposing pain, stiffness and reduced mobility that can significantly affect daily life. Beyond medications and joint procedures, exercise medicine - carefully prescribed movement based on clinical evidence – is one of the most effective treatments available. Across a spectrum of arthritis conditions from osteoarthritis to inflammatory arthritis and chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia, exercise improves function, reduces pain and enhances quality of life. Below we unpack how it helps each condition, inclusive of recent Australian research.
Osteoarthritis (OA): Strength, Movement & Symptom Relief
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is driven by cartilage breakdown and joint stress. Exercise is consistently recommended to help manage symptoms:
A 2025 randomised clinical trial showed that both structured yoga and strengthening programs produced clinically meaningful reductions in knee OA pain and improved quality of life over 12 weeks, supporting diverse exercise options for patients. JAMA Network
A recent Australian multi-centre trial (PHOENIX) published in The Lancet Rheumatology investigated whether adding aerobic activity to a resistance exercise program improved hip OA outcomes. While both groups improved pain and physical function, the addition of aerobic exercise did not significantly outperform resistance training alone over three months – underscoring the effectiveness of targeted, structured exercise prescriptions for managing symptoms. Griffith Research Repository
At CCA we recommend and deliver the GLAD® Program for Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis. Backed by strong research GLAD® has been shown to reduce pain, improve joint function, and enhance quality of lift – offering a proven, non-surgical path to better outcomes.
Eligible and approved HBF and HCF members can access the program at no cost and rebates may apply with other health insurance providers.
Takeaway: Exercise isn’t just safe – it’s effective for osteoarthritis especially when properly prescribed by an Accredited Exercise Physiologist to support weight control, muscular support around joints, and improved mobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Reducing Disease Impact & Boosting Function
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune, systemic condition. Historically patients were advised to rest – but research now shows a different picture:
Meta-analyses show that exercise reduces pain, fatigue, and disease activity scores including DAS (Disease Activity Score) and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). PubMed
University of South Australia researchers trialled a novel form of exercise – blood blood flow restricted resistance training in people with RA. Early findings showed improvements in strength, physical performance and significant pain reduction using lighter loads, which is ideal for people with pain or fatigue that limit traditional heavy lifting. Go to link.
Takeaway: Exercise should be an integral part of RA management – patients benefit from tailored strength and functional exercises that minimise joint stress while maximising muscle preservation to improve pain and daily capacities.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Movement for Pain, Function & Well-Being
Psoriatic arthritis affects joints and skin, and while research is not as extensive as for RA:
Current evidence indicates that regular physical activity improves general symptoms like pain and fatigue, increases quality of life, and supports cardiovascular health in PsA. PubMed
Arthritis Australia resources emphasize the importance of regular physical activity to support joint mobility and fitness and emphasise seeking professional guidance. when starting new programs. My Psoriatic Arthritis
Takeaway: Though more research is needed, existing studies support exercise as a safe, beneficial adjunct to medical therapy for PsA.
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Conserving Mobility & Quality of Life
Ankylosing Spondylitis primarily targets the spine and sacroiliac joints, often leading to stiffness and reduced mobility.
A 2025 meta-analysis of multiple RCTs found that supervised combined exercise programs and neuromuscular training (balance, posture, strength) had greater benefits for disease activity and physical function than standard care or unsupervised routines. spondylitis.org
Takeaway: For AS targeted exercise prescriptions – especially combined and supervised programs – are among the most effective non-drug treatments for preserving independence and mobility.
Fibromyalgia: Easing Pain, Fatigue & Quality of Life
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome characterised by widespread pain, fatigue and impaired sleep – not strictly an arthritis type, but often co-occurring.
Resources from Arthritis Australia support regular physical activity as an important management strategy for fibromyalgia, reporting benefits in pain reduction, improved fitness, energy and mood. The Arthritis Movement.
Takeaway: Exercise is a core component of fibromyalgia management, enhancing physical and emotional health. Gentle strength training and flexibility exercises delivered with pacing and progression can substantially help symptom control.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Supporting Function & Activity
PMR is a systemic inflammatory condition causing pain and stiffness, especially in older adults:
While high-quality exercise trials are limited for PMR practical guidance emphasises maintaining safe activity to preserve mobility and reduce disability.
Takeaway: Clinical experience supports exercise and movement as valuable adjuncts to standard treatment in PMR.
Why Exercise Works Across Arthritis Types
Muscle strengthening helps unload joints and improve function.
Aerobic activity improves cardiovascular health and reduces fatigue.
Flexibility and mobility training preserve joint range and reduce stiffness.
Neuromuscular control and balance work lower the risk of falls.
Exercise also supports mental health and quality of life, which is vital in long-term conditions.
Modern research shows that exercise interventions are not simply “nice to have” but core therapeutic tools that can change outcomes.
Evidence-based, tailored to you
At Chronic Care Australia our 12-week Exercise Medicine Program for Arthritis is tailored to meet your specific. On-site and virtual treatment options are available.
What you get:
Comprehensive initial assessment
Clinical testing based on initial assessment findings
Personalised, evidence-based program
Program familiarisation appointment
Clinical program supervision to ensure safety and results
Three review appointments.
Take your next step:
Call us on (08) 9385 1430 for a FREE 10-minute consultation.
Massage & Arthritis
Arthritis and Osteoporosis Western Australia have released a fact sheet to provide general information about massage for people with arthritis and musculoskeletal pain. It includes guidelines on finding a qualified massage therapist and general safety tips.
Massage will not cure your arthritis but may provide short-term pain relief, improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension. You can book massage at Chronic Care Australia with our qualified remedial massage therapist Vincent by clicking this link.
