Surfing & Arthritis

Surfing and arthritis seem unlikely to go together, but many people who suffer from arthritis are able to continue enjoying a sport they love. Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body and cause inflammation or pain, so some simple precautions may be all that's needed to ride the waves.

  1. Shoulders, Surfing and Arthritis

    • Overhead motions can stress the shoulders.

      Surfing requires a fair amount of overhead arm movement as arms are up or out for balance. The acromioclavicular joint, which connects the acromion and the clavicle, is the joint where arthritis may settle. Use of anti-inflammatory medications may ease the pain in the AC joint. Surfers may develop arthritis at a younger age because of the stress placed on this joint, or due to an injury after a fall while surfing. Surfing is allowed if symptoms permit.

    Surfer's Stance

    • Keep your hips flexible while surfing.

      Standing on a surfboard can cause an outward rotation of the hip and cause the knee to turn outward. This can cause a pain flare-up if a surfer has arthritis in the knee. A surfer must be sure to stretch the hips to allow full range of mobility so the muscles do not tighten up and cause pain.

    Core Strength

    • A surfer must have a strong core, the area between the knees and shoulders, or she would simply fall off of the board. When the core of the body is strong, the muscles of the back and abdomen in particular will keep the back protected from pain. Strong muscles help to support the body better, keeping the joints in place and allowing correct alignment and movement. Many people who have arthritis in their backs can still participate in surfing because they have strengthened these muscles over the many years they have surfed. A strong core is also the key to good balance and posture. When a person can stand up straight with proper alignment, his arthritis can be kept in check.

    Benefits of Surfing

    • A conundrum with arthritis is that it hurts to move, but if you don't move, it still hurts. Surfing engages the entire body, so there is plenty of movement. Lying down on the board and paddling out requires arm and shoulder strength. Sitting on the board utilizes balance. Going from sitting or kneeling to standing is a balancing act of strength. And moving through the waves uses the whole body. The more you use your body the stronger and more supple it is. And strong and supple will keep the body in less pain than doing nothing. Surfing is also a non impact activity, so someone who has arthritis in his feet or knees and is bothered by impact activities can continue to surf without pain or discomfort.

    If It Feels Good...

    • If an arthritis sufferer can surf without too much pain, then he should stay active. It's good for both the mind and body. A surfer who suffers from arthritis will know when to take it easy or stop surfing entirely when the pain is severe.