RLMC Staff Report

Rainy Lake Medical Center is offering an eight-week exercise program in partnership with the Arthritis Foundation beginning Feb. 23.

Developed by physical therapists specifically for people with arthritis, this low-impact, joint-safe exercise program has been documented to help decrease arthritis pain and relieve stiffness while increasing flexibility and range of motion.

“The program can build stronger muscles and overall stamina through balance and endurance exercises,” said Nissa Fougner, director of the Rainy Lake Medical Center Therapy and Wellness Center.

The Arthritis Foundation exercise program is taught by Jacinda McLaughlin, program leader, who received in-depth training on the program and is certified by the Arthritis Foundation.

“Class participants will perform a series of gentle movements and activities designed to increase mobility and range of motion,” McLaughlin said. “This low-impact class is suitable for every fitness level and can be done while sitting, standing or laying on the floor.”

In addition to reducing pain and stiffness, the program helps people with arthritis keep joints flexible, maintain muscle strength and build overall stamina. In a recent study, individuals who participated in the Arthritis Foundation exercise program for four months reduced their pain by 24 percent and increased confidence in their ability to continue activities by 22 percent.

Classes will be from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays for eight weeks beginning Feb. 23. To register, call the Therapy and Wellness Center at Rainy Lake Medical Center at 283-5420 before Feb. 16. Cost of the program, which includes 16 sessions, is $35. RLMC recommends before starting any exercise program, always check with a physician.