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Where Does It Hurt?

Back & Neck

The spine runs from the back of the neck to the lower back and can be painful and stiff from problems such as arthritis and muscle stress.

Shoulders

These ball-and-socket joints move in almost all directions. Shoulders are prone to arthritis injury and fracture.

Elbows

Elbows can be affected by arthritis and repetitive use that can mean ongoing pain and stiffness.

Hips

These ball-and-socket joints move in almost all directions. Arthritis and osteoporosis can mean pain, stiffness or fracture.

Wrists, Hands & Fingers

Wrist, hand and finger joints are among the most important joints for performing daily activities.

Knees

The largest joints in the body, like the knees, are vulnerable to injury and arthritis.

Ankles

The ankle is a complex joint with many moving parts, making it vulnerable to injury and arthritis.

Foot, Heel & Toe

As the foundation of the body, feet bear the brunt of the weight. Arthritis and impact-related injuries are common in feet.

Lookup by Body Part

  • Just click on the body part that’s in pain
  • Learn about this body part, what can go wrong, and how to care for it
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Arthritis Today

How to reduce pain, find the right treatments and live better with arthritis. [Bi-weekly]

Fitness + Nutrition

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Mind, Body, Spirit

Find arthritis care tips, inspirational stories and Arthritis Foundation news. [Monthly]

Let's Move Together

Tools to keep you moving, including information on Arthritis Walk. [Monthly]

Research Update

Discover advancements made by Arthritis Foundation-funded researchers. [Quarterly]

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Newsletters

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Get the practical information you need to live better with arthritis delivered straight to your inbox!

Arthritis Today

How to reduce pain, find the right treatments and live better with arthritis. [Bi-weekly]

Fitness + Nutrition

Get weight-loss tips, arthritis-friendly recipes and ways to exercise safely. [Bi-weekly]

Mind, Body, Spirit

Find arthritis care tips, inspirational stories and Arthritis Foundation news. [Monthly]

Let's Move Together

Tools to keep you moving, including information on Arthritis Walk. [Monthly]

Research Update

Discover advancements made by Arthritis Foundation-funded researchers. [Quarterly]

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Standing Hamstring Stretch

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PRECAUTION: Stop this exercise if it causes a muscle cramp.

PRECAUTION: Be careful to maintain your balance. Hold onto a stable object (a chair, railing, wall, tree or counter) while doing this exercise.

  • Holding onto a supportive railing or wall, place your right leg on a slightly raised surface, like a step or a curb.
  • Keep your hips facing forward and your standing knee bent.
  • Slowly bend your left knee until you feel a very mild pulling or stretch on the back of your right thigh. Do not let your knee go beyond your toes.
  • To stretch a little more, bend forward slightly at your hips, keeping your back straight.
  • Hold and then repeat with your other leg.

REMEMBER:

  • Stretch just until you feel gentle pulling in your muscle, and then hold the stretch in that position. The stretch shouldn’t be painful.
  • Stretch gently and smoothly, and do not bounce.
  • Breathe naturally as you hold the stretches. Don’t hold your breath.

Walk With Ease Exercises

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