Summer's right around the corner. With ample opportunity to spend time outside, there's no reason you should feel obligated to exercise in the gym. In fact, there are plenty of low-impact activities that can help you stay in shape while enjoying everything Mother Nature has to offer. These exercises are great for virtually anyone; even if you're dealing with a debilitating condition like arthritis, or you suffer from a repetitive strain injury, you can try a low-impact activity and optimize your overall health and wellness.

Here are a few exercises to weave into your agenda this summer:

1. Take a walk

What better way to embrace the great outdoors than with a walk through the park? According to the Mayo Clinic, walking can help you maintain a healthy weight as well as strengthen your bones and muscles. You'll be more likely to achieve these health benefits if you can walk for at least 30 minutes a day – but even shorter walks can help.

2. Go on a bike ride

Biking is another fun and exciting way to explore nature. It's also a great form of low-impact exercise. As The Better Health Channel describes it, cycling is incredibly beneficial to your overall health. Biking on a regular basis increases cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and flexibility. It also improves joint mobility, reduces stress levels, burns calories and can lower feelings associated with anxiety and depression. 

3. Hike the nature trails

When there's sunshine in the forecast, plan a hiking trip with your loved ones. Hiking is an optimal low-impact exercise that comes with many of the same benefits as biking, such as building stronger bones and muscles and improving cardiovascular health. It can also reduce your risk of experiencing respiratory issues and may enhance your balance, according to the National Park Service.

4. Practice yoga in the park

Looking for an activity that puts the mind, body and soul at ease? Harvard Health Publishing stated that yoga may increase flexibility and muscle strength, reduce anxiety and enhance cardiovascular health. Try an outdoor yoga session this summer to be one with nature.

If any of these low-impact exercises continue to affect your joints or body during the activity, you may consider using an IMAK Compression or IMAK RSI product that provides additional comfort and support. From the open fingertip design of the IMAK Compression Arthritis Gloves, to the tri-band technology of the IMAK Compression Knee and Elbow Sleeves, these products are designed to support a healthy lifestyle. They allow freedom to touch, grip and move while always staying in place.

Remaining active and healthy this summer is simple with IMAK Compression and IMAK RSI products. To learn more, browse Brownmed today.

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According to the Arthritis Foundation, an arthritis flare is defined as a period of time when you experience worsened symptoms unexpectedly. These episodes can be a debilitating period when joints are swollen and in pain after days of feeling comfortable. Medication is often sought out to control these flares, but may not always have the ability to mitigate the pain.

While arthritis flares may be unpredictable, there are ways to confront the discomfort head-on. Here are a few ways to cope with an arthritis flare:

1. Understand the warning signs

Although the timing of a flare can be uncertain, there are certain early warning signs that may indicate that the debilitating discomfort is on the way. Slight, dull aching in the joints is one to be mindful of, as is fatigue during the day.

2. Prepare in advance if possible

Because flares occur unexpectedly, it's important to prepare in advance as much as you can. The Arthritis Foundation recommended saving up sick time and making adjustments to your normal schedule in the event of a flare occurring so you have the bandwidth to stay home, relax and reduce the risk of overusing your joints.

3. Rest, but don't stop moving

Everyone's body needs a chance to rest, and if you live with arthritis, this is especially true for your joints. However, too much unwinding can actually cause your joints to stiffen, making a flare worse or more likely to occur in the first place. Instead of staying in bed all day with an arthritis flare, throw in a few periods of low-impact activity to keep your joints in full range of motion, as the Arthritis Foundation suggested. Just remember to understand your personal threshold; don't overwork your body during a flare.

4. Consider hot and cold therapy

Some people recommend using a heating pad while experiencing an arthritis flare, while others will suggest applying a cold compress. Both pieces of advice are correct, but you may consider combining hot and cold therapy to cope with the pain. Heat increases blood flow while cold reduces inflammation. Start by applying a heat patch or warm compress for 15 minutes, then switch to a cold pack for 15 minutes. Repeat this pattern two to four times a day during the flare-up.

5. Use IMAK Compression products

Whether you're living with arthritis in your hands, wrists, elbows or knees, one of the IMAK Compression products from Brownmed can help you cope with an unexpected flare. Each item is designed to reduce swelling, improve circulation and create warmth in the affected area to provide relief throughout the day. These products make it easier to go about everyday activities without having to stop and deal with the pain of a flare.

Learn more about which IMAK Compression product makes sense for you by browsing the Brownmed product catalog today.

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According to the Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center, a service provided by the National Institutes of Health, arthritis is a condition that impacts joints and their surrounding tissue, such as the knees, wrists, fingers, toes and hips. The two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that often develops due to the overuse of certain joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that occurs because the body releases enzymes that attack the lining of the joints. Both conditions are serious and have a major impact on people living in the U.S.

Here are a few statistics you need to know about arthritis:

10 alarming statistics about arthritis

1. According to the Arthritis Foundation, this condition is the leading cause of disability among adults in the country.
2. Around 54 million adults have been diagnosed with arthritis, and 300,000 babies and children have some type of rheumatic condition.
3. About two-thirds of the adults in the U.S. who live with arthritis are between the ages 18 and 64, making a significant impact on the working world.
4. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of the condition, and it impacts about 31 million people in the U.S.
5. Arthritis is more prevalent in women than men.
6. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults who are overweight or obese are more likely to be diagnosed with arthritis than someone with a low body mass index.
7. However, more than 16 percent of adults who are considered to be at a normal weight have arthritis.
8. Between 2013 and 2015, 44 percent of adults who were diagnosed with arthritis reported that they experienced activity limitations due to their condition.
9. Adults with arthritis are 2.5 times more likely to experience two or more falls that lead to serious injury than those without the condition.
10. By the year 2040, more than 78 million Americans are expected to have an arthritis diagnosis.

Tips for arthritis pain management

If you're currently living with arthritis or the condition has the potential to affect you, there are various options for pain management to consider now or in the future.

The Arthritis Foundation recommends implementing more physical activity into your daily routine. Focus on exercises that improve posture, strength, function, and range of motion to mitigate pain and reduce its chances of occurring in the first place.

A mixture of hot and cold therapy can also help reduce inflammation. Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 10 minutes, then switch to a heating pad for 10 minutes.

If you're looking for an option for pain relief that doesn't keep you from going about your daily routine, the use of IMAK Compression products can benefit you greatly. Whether you choose the gloves, elbow sleeve, wrist sleeve, knee sleeve or socks, each product is designed to help reduce swelling, improve circulation and warm the affected area to provide pain relief from conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Browse Brownmed's product portfolio for more information on IMAK Compression and other sought after brands today.

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As fall approaches, there are plenty of things to get excited about enjoying during the new season. The changing leaves, extra layers of clothing and pumpkin spiced everything make it simple to get cozy throughout autumn. The drop in temperature may also inspire you to spend more time outdoors while exercising.

It's important to remember that changing weather can impact your joints, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Low temperatures can increase the thickness of fluid in the joints, which can make it more difficult to move around if you're living with arthritis. That doesn't necessarily mean you can't get active outside this fall, however. Low-impact physical activity can be very beneficial for those with this debilitating disease.

Take advantage of crisp, cool temperatures this fall and exercise your muscles outside with these activities:

Walk in a 5K

Walking is the perfect low-impact option for strengthening your muscles, reducing stress and relieving pain associated with arthritis. With the new season comes an abundance of locally sponsored walks and races, so why not participate? Find one that supports a charity that's dear to your heart so you can walk with a purpose this season.

Take a hike

Just as walking in a 5K can benefit your body, taking a hike along your favorite nature trail is ideal for getting in your exercise while basking in all the changes the season has to offer. Just be sure you stay along the flat dirt or level path, as suggested by Davis Reyes, assistant manager of the Joint Mobility Center at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.

"Walking on uneven terrain can aggravate arthritis in your hips, knees and feet," Reyes told the Arthritis Foundation.

Tend your garden

While gardening is most often associated with summertime, there are so many delicious seasonal vegetables you can harvest just in time for fall. So keep up with this hobby! What's best about gardening is it's a stress-relieving option that can also relieve pain associated with arthritis – you just have to take extra precautionary measures. Using a knee pad or scooter wagon and long-handled tools gives you more versatility and helps make gardening more comfortable. It's also important to remember to take breaks more often – too much stress on your joints for a long period of time can exacerbate arthritis pain. Make time to sit back, relax and admire your garden!

Go for a bike ride

Cycling is another option that works the legs from the hips down to your feet. Too much time spent on the bike may aggravate your knees, so make sure you listen to your body and know when it's time to take a break.

If you need more support while you exercise this fall, consider one of the many IMAK Compression products offered by BrownMed. The Arthritis Knee Sleeve, Elbow Sleeve and Shin Sleeve are all designed with breathable cotton material and provide mild compression for warmth to increase circulation, reduce pain and aid the healing process.

Learn more about IMAK Compression products today.

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Physical activity is a necessity for living your healthiest life. According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults need to spend at least 150 minutes a week dedicated to moderate-intensity aerobic activity, also prioritizing muscle-strengthening activities two or more days of the week to focus on the legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms.

For those living arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or another debilitating disease, exercise might by the last thing on your mind. However, keeping those joints moving is a great form of pain relief and can be more effective than sitting still.

Pain relief exercises
Walking, swimming and yoga are three great ways to work your body without putting too much pressure on your joints. Here are a few other moves you can incorporate into your fitness regimen for arthritis pain relief, recommended the Arthritis-health blog by Veritas:

Floor exercises: Getting down on the floor to exercise can strengthen your lower back as well as your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. This will put less strain on your legs, knees and ankles while walking. Try the pelvic tilt, bridge and plank moves suggested here.

Exercise ball moves: Working out your core is key to overall body strength and pain relief! A large exercise ball is the easiest way to work your core without going all of the way to the ground. Try oblique and half crunches on the ball to strengthen your abdominal muscles.

If you're new to exercise, don't force yourself to implement all of these moves into your routine. Just start slow and build up your workout as the days get easier!

Knowing when to take it slow
While staying active is vital, understanding when it's time to rest is a critical component to taking proper care of your body. According to Veritas Health, it starts with knowing the difference between good and bad pain.

Good pain refers to the healthy soreness you feel after completing a tough workout, while bad pain is the result of overworking an arthritic joint and feeling debilitated because of the harshness.

If you know the pain you're feeling is good, don't be afraid to work through it. But if the feeling comes on too strong and can be identified as an arthritis flare-up, stop what you're doing immediately. Take a break from working out for a few days and use rest and ice and heat therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.

Use IMAK Compression gear
If you want to make the most of your exercise regimen and keep your bones, joints and muscles comfortable during your workout, invest in IMAK Compression gear. The Arthritis Elbow Sleeve, Knee Sleeve and Shin Sleeve are designed with mild compression to create warmth to help increase circulation, which works to reduce pain and promotes healing. These pieces are all ideal for people living with chronic pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia, overuse or other conditions who want to continue living an active lifestyle.

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More than 50 million people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with arthritis by a physician, according to the Arthritis Foundation, and there are likely many more who are living with the condition but have yet to be formally diagnosed. And it's not just seniors. Cleveland Clinic reported that more than half of those with arthritis are under 65 years old.   

With the number of people diagnosed with this condition expected to grow to more than 78 million by 2040, it is increasingly critical to be able to recognize the symptoms and know when to consult with a physician. 

Symptoms of arthritis
Arthritis is the general term for a group of diseases characterized by joint inflammation. According to Cleveland Clinic, this condition encompasses more than 100 individual diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis. 

Mayo Clinic reported that some of the common symptoms of arthritis include:

• Stiffness.
• Joint pain.
• Redness.
• Swelling.
• Inhibited range of motion. 

These symptoms can come and go over time and are often associated with other health concerns, which sometimes makes it difficult to recognize that they're caused by arthritis. Consequently, it's critical to schedule an appointment with your physician if you suspect that you may have arthritis.

The condition is usually diagnosed through imaging scans, such as those done by X-rays, computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI.) These pictures can reveal damage to your bones or loss of cartilage, which are telltale signs of arthritis. 

Pain is one of the most common symptoms of arthritis.

Treatment for arthritis symptoms
If you're living with arthritis, there are a number of options that will help you manage the pain and maintain your quality of life. Though medication – both prescription and over-the-counter options – is common and surgery and other invasive measures are sometimes recommended, there are other complementary strategies that are simple, natural and convenient. 

For example, your level of movement can make a big difference. Harvard Medical School reported that it's important to remain active, getting up to stretch every 15 minutes when you're sitting or otherwise stationary. You should also avoid positions that put stress on your joints.

According to Mayo Clinic, some people additionally have found success using different types of alternative medicine, such as acupuncture, yoga, massage and tai chi. Hot and cold compresses are also often recommended. 

If you're living with arthritis, you should consider trying one of the products from the IMAK® Compression line. The Arthritis Gloves, Arthritis Socks, Arthritis Knee Sleeve and other offerings are designed to help alleviate the pain, aches and stiffness associated with arthritis through mild compression that provides warmth and increases circulation. Made from breathable cotton, the IMAK® Compression products are comfortable, secure and easy-to-use.  

Be sure to discuss any treatment plan – as well as symptoms – with your primary care doctor.   

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Springtime offers the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy the wonderful weather after being cooped up inside after a long, dreary winter. Some may say it's difficult, however, to find that initial motivation to get up and moving if arthritis pain is present. Contrary to popular belief, regular low-impact exercise can help reduce the pain associated with arthritis, according to the Spine and Joint Center.

If you find yourself dealing with the common signs and symptoms of arthritis, but you want to get outside and enjoy the new season in all of its glory, here are four spring exercises that may relieve joint pain:

1. Make time to stretch
Stretching is imperative to physical activity and must be taken seriously. It promotes better support for the joints and improves flexibility, reducing your risk of getting hurt while exercising. Focus on stretching the major muscles in the body, and spend time stretching muscles adjacent to the joints impacted by arthritis, Veritas Health recommended. Set aside 10 to 15 minutes to warm up before your exercise.

2. Take a brisk walk
Going on a walk is the perfect way to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of nature, and it's also the ideal form of physical activity for someone who wants to take things slow when starting an exercise regimen. Walking reduces stiffness in the joints and promotes healthy bones. Consider joining a walking club or making arrangements to take a stroll through the park once a week with a family member or close friend. A knee sleeve, like this one from IMAK Compression, may also be helpful if pain or discomfort limits your ability to walk.

3. Jump in the pool
Whether it's warm enough to swim outside or you have to use the indoor pool, swimming is an excellent form of exercise for someone living with arthritis. Water supports the weight of the body, and swimming stretches the muscles while putting little to no impact on the joints. Consider joining a water aerobics class this spring for optimal benefit. 

4. Take up gardening
Sure, gardening is a refreshing springtime hobby that allows you to grow your own beautiful flowers and delicious produce, but the task is also beneficial for the body. According to AARP, gardening is considered an advantageous form of aerobic activity that improves strength, stamina and flexibility. Just 30 minutes of digging up weeds, removing rocks, raking and trimming shrubs can amount to hundreds of calories burned! If you don't already garden during the springtime, now's a great time to consider taking up a new hobby. IMAK Compression Active Gloves even have added no-slip grips to improve grip and comfort.

Try IMAK Compression products
If you're seeking additional pain relief this spring, you may consider wearing IMAK Compression products. This helpful, wearable gear is known to relieve pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia, joint overuse and more, and can be worn all day, whether you're exercising or relaxing. The Arthritis Gloves, Socks, Shin Sleeve, Elbow Sleeve, Knee Sleeve and Wrist Sleeve are all designed to reduce swelling, improve circulation and provide warmth to the affected area for additional comfort.

Buy your IMAK Compression products today for reduced joint pain this spring.

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According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 50 million adults have been diagnosed with arthritis. By 2040, that number is expected to reach 78 million. With that many people living with this debilitating disease, it's important to educate the public and clear up any misinformation surrounding pain and treatment in regard to arthritis.

Here are five common myths about arthritis to keep in mind:

Myth 1: Arthritis only occurs with old age
Half of the population aged 65 and older has arthritis, but the disease impacts more than just older people. According to the Arthritis Foundation, adults aged 18 to 64 make up two-thirds of the people who have arthritis. Furthermore, nearly 300,000 babies and children in the U.S. are living with a form of the chronic condition. Essentially, you can develop arthritis at any given age.

Myth 2: Diet doesn't impact arthritis pain
Diet has an impact on nearly every aspect of your body and well-being, so this is false. The foods you eat can affect how your joints feel, as inflammation is the No. 1 culprit associated with arthritis, according to Newsmax. Some inflammation-fighting foods you can incorporate in your diet to mitigate pain include fatty fish, olive oil, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. To reduce inflammation and improve your overall health, curb salt and sugar from your diet and limit your alcohol consumption.

Myth 3: Cold compression is better than heated
Cold and warm compression are both helpful when it comes to reducing pain and swelling brought on by arthritis. An ice pack can be used to bring down inflammation in the joints, while a heated compress can soothe and relax the muscles and tendons surrounding the affected joints. It's important to consider both options when treating arthritis pain.

Myth 4: All joint pain is related to arthritis
Just because you're experiencing pain in your joints doesn't mean you have arthritis. According to the Cleveland Clinic, joint pain can also mean you're living with tendonitis, bursitis or an unrelated soft-tissue injury. That's why it's so important to visit your doctor when you notice the pain to ensure a valid diagnosis.

Myth 5: Compression wear won't help with arthritis pain
Although some may believe that compression accessories will be too constricting, compression can provide serious relief for arthritis pain. If you notice sudden onset pain in your hands, wrists, elbows, knees or feet, talk to your doctor about using IMAK Compression Arthritis products. These accessories can provide natural relief from pain, stress and discomfort brought on by arthritis. The warmth and compression is specifically designed to target the affected area, reducing swelling and improving circulation.

Purchase your IMAK Compression Arthritis products today.

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If you've vowed to make better lifestyle choices in 2018, why not prioritize arthritis management? There are plenty ways you can mitigate stiffness and aching associated with your joints, and the new year poses the perfect opportunity to ensure you're making smarter choices in regard to your overall health and well-being.

Here are four New Year's resolutions for those living with arthritis to consider:

Follow a balanced diet
While following a certain diet cannot cure arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation stated that there are a number of foods you can eat to fight inflammation, strengthen your bones and boost your immune system. Salmon, tuna, soy beans, olive oil, dairy products, broccoli and whole grains are loaded with vitamins, essential fatty acids and calcium that can aid bone growth, as well as reduce aching and pain in the joints. Add more of these foods to your diet to alleviate symptoms related to your arthritis.

Exercise regularly
Physical activity is a key component to overall health for anyone, but it's especially beneficial for those living with arthritis. While you may associate exercise with putting more stress on your joints, that's not always the case – you just need to know which fitness options you have that won't wear you down. Bashir Zikria, MD, an assistant professor of sports medicine at Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, told the Arthritis Foundation that regular physical fitness while living with arthritis is smart, but just be mindful of what kind of exercise can impact your joints negatively.

"Exercise is good. But exercise intelligently," Zikria said. "Low-impact exercises, like walking, cycling or using an elliptical machine are smart choices. If you run, play basketball or do other high-impact activities, avoid hard surfaces and don't do it every day."

Range of motion exercises can help maintain the flexibility of your body, while walking and aquatic fitness takes the stress off of your joints while strengthening the heart, reducing your risk for fractures and toning your muscles.

Get enough rest
A good night's sleep is essential because it allows the brain to produce chemicals that help you deal with pain. Plus, resting your body adequately every night ensures you're ready to take on the next day. To reduce fatigue, create a sleep environment that sets your rest up for success. Invest in room-darkening curtains, remove all distractions from the space and sleep with enough blankets to keep you warm and cozy at night.

Start using products for arthritis relief
If you experienced debilitating pain last year, make a difference in 2018 by investing in products that provide relief. The IMAK® Compression Arthritis Gloves, Elbow Sleeve, Socks and Wrist Sleeve are all designed to help reduce swelling, improve circulation and provide warmth to the areas of your body impacted by arthritis. IMAK® Compression products may help provide natural relief from aching, swelling and stress to live your happiest, fullest life this year and beyond.

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