Arthritis Management Programs
The Montana Arthritis Program collaborates with local organizations to implement Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) arthritis-approved evidence-based exercise and self-management program in communities throughout Montana.
Arthritis-approved evidence-based programs have shown to help treat and manage arthritis and other related conditions symptoms. Participants that attend the arthritis exercise and self-management programs have shown improvement in reducing their arthritis symptoms, such as pain.
Arthritis Exercise Programs
Studies show that physical activity can reduce pain and improve function, mood, and quality of life for adults with arthritis. Being physically active can also delay the onset of arthritis-related disability. Physical activity is also important for the management of other chronic conditions that are common among adults with arthritis, such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
Walk with Ease
The Arthritis Foundation created the Walk with Ease program. Although the Arthritis Foundation supports the Walk with Ease program, anyone is welcome to participate in the Walk with Ease program, regardless having arthritis or not.
Walk with Ease Class Structure
- 6-week walking program
- Offered in two formats:
- Group (instructor-led); and
- Self-Directed
- For anyone who wants to start or maintain a low impact exercise program.
- Participants receive a Walk with Ease guidebook.
- The guidebook helps individuals to assess their exercise needs and keep track of progress.
- Walk with Ease Fact Sheet
| Group | Self-Directed |
|---|---|
Watch the Introduction to the Walk with Ease Program, from the Osteoarthritis Action Allegiance. |
Watch the Walk with Ease Self-Directed Introduction video from the Osteoarthritis Action Allegiance |
Walk with Ease Benefits
- Improve strength and balance
- Increase walking pace and duration
- Decrease pain, fatigue, and depression
- Build confidence to exercise
- Improve overall health
Click on the map to locate a Walk with Ease class in your community.
Walk with Ease Leader
If you are interested in being a Walk with Ease leader and offering a class in your community, please contact the Montana Arthritis Program Manager, Melissa Dale at Melissa.Dale@mt.gov.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is an exercise class designed to teach adults with arthritis effective and joint-safe moves to reduce joint pain and stiffness. Individuals do not need to be officially diagnosed with arthritis to attend the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program Class Structure
- 8 weeks, meets 2 times per week
- Trained instructor covers a variety of range-of-motion, endurance building activities, relaxation techniques, and health education topics
- Exercises can be done either sitting or standing
- All exercises can be adjusted to meet anyone ability and fitness needs
- All exercises are joint-safe
- Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program Fact Sheet
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program Benefits
- Improve functional abilities to be able to perform everyday tasks
- Such as holding a cup, lifting and carrying groceries, and walking
- Decrease joint pain and stiffness
- Reduce depression symptoms
- Increase strength, balance, and coordination
- Provide social interaction
Click on the map to locate an Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program class in your community.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program Leader
If you are interested in being an Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program leader and offer classes in your community, please contact the Montana Arthritis Program Manager, Melissa Dale at Melissa.Dale@mt.gov.
- Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program— Program Leader
Exercise for Arthritis
- Arthritis Exercise Fact Sheet
- Exercising with Arthritis
- Personalized exercise tips
- 14 Workouts with Arthritis
- Arthritis Health & Wellness
