Arthritic patients with severe joint damage should not use during PA?

• A. Cardio machines
• B. Resistance bands
• C. Free weights
• D. Weights

Answer: (D)

When joints are severely damaged, the amount of load applied during activity matters a lot. External weights create higher resistance that the joints must bear throughout movements, increasing compressive and shear forces. This can worsen pain, swelling, and accelerate joint wear or injury over time. So, during physical activity for someone with serious arthritic damage, avoiding weights helps protect the joints while still allowing movement and conditioning.

Safer options focus on lower-load, lower-impact ways to stay active. Cardio machines like ellipticals or stationary bikes and resistance bands provide muscle engagement with gentler joint loading, helping maintain fitness without the same level of joint stress. If weights are considered, they should be used only with very light loads and close supervision, but the overall guideline is to minimize or skip weights during activity to protect the joints.