Although joint pain may make activity difficult at first, you’ll likely find that once you try it, regular physical activity will actually ease your pain and help your body produce its own natural pain killers — endorphins. Physical activity also can increase your strength, stamina, flexibility and range of motion — all of which will help with everyday life. And if you are overweight, staying active can be an important part of a weight-loss plan. To avoid causing further pain, choose exercises that are gentle on joints such as walking, stationary cycling, swimming, water aerobics low-impact aerobics or yoga. A physical therapist (PT) or occupational therapist (OT) also can help you find and do physical activity that’s effective and safe for your specific condition and needs. They can help you adapt the way you move and move your joints — or the environment you live in — so you can safely complete daily tasks like getting in and out of bed, climbing stairs and more.