Mobility & constipation

Pattypoo1959

hi, Im elderly & struggling to keep my mobility , still walking a certain amount every day etc but Ive found since I couldnt do as much as I used to, Im struggling with constipation, Im drinking lots of water and doing all the usual things but nothing helps, I dont want to rely on laxatives . What kind of exercises can anyone recommend that may help but not aggravate my knee pain so much . Will upper body exercises help?

annabanana

Hi @Pattypoo1959 sorry to hear that you're struggling, I have attached some links to exercises that you may find helpful. Also, have you tried taking any fiber supplements? There are a few good ones on sites such as Amazon which are highly rated. I hope things improve for you 😊.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/exercising-with-arthritis/exercises-for-healthy-joints/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2020/june/how-to-stay-active-when-you-have-arthritis/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2020/january/moving-more-with-the-escape-pain-programme/

violet46

hi @Pattypoo1959 I find that a sprinkling of psyllium husk on my oats for breakfast in the morning, is a big help for me.

Also if you like prunes I have 5 dried prunes a day which are not only a help for constipation but also good for bones as they have Boron in them.

helpline_team

Hi @Pattypoo1959

Thanks for posting on the Helpline Online Community and sorry to hear of your struggle with mobility and constipation. Thank you for the suggestions from @violet46 and for the links provided by @annabanana to some great exercises on our website. These exercises cover whole body movement, suitable for people with arthritis, to build up the strength around your joints for improved stability and mobility. They can also ease arthritis symptoms such as pain and stiffness. I would also add that Tai Chi is a nice gentle form of movement which is also very relaxing, which could help with the constipation. If the constipation doesn’t improve for you soon, I would recommend visiting your GP or local pharmacist for advice.

You could ask your GP for a referral to a physiotherapist who could work with you to find a bespoke programme of movement tailored to your current level of mobility. By doing exercises suggested for you regularly, it could help you to move more freely.

You may find the following website pages helpful:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2023/november/is-tai-chi-good-for-arthritis/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/

I hope this helps, best wishes,
Helen, Helpline Advisor