Hand Arthritis & Swimming for Exercise

Both osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect the joints in the hands, but usually in a different distribution. OA develops when the cushioning cartilage that covers the ends of bones at the joints deteriorates, leading to pain and stiffness. RA is an autoimmune disease, in which the bodys immune system mistakenly attacks tissues around joints. Like running and bicycling, swimming is a good aerobic exercise.