Arthritis: Surprising Ways to Ease Pain

The more your body weighs, the more wear and tear on your joints. Exercise can help you lose weight, but it can also help in other ways.

Stretching and strengthening exercises -- if done carefully -- can improve joint mobility and lower pain intensity.

Here's how to get started.

Talk To Your Doctor First

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Why it helps: It's wise for anyone to talk with their doctor before starting an exercise regime, but it is especially important if your joints are injured by arthritis and your fitness level is low from taking it easy to stay out of pain.

Ask about exercise time and weight limits, motivational support, and the appropriate after -- exercise pain treatment.