About 66 million Americans have some form of arthritis. While there is no known cure, warm water therapy or water aerobics is proving to be a safe and easy way to relieve arthritis pain and stiffness.

A few Lincoln ladies head to the pool several times a week, but they're not just taking a dip, they're benefiting from the time in the water. It's called warm water therapy.

"Well, I didn't know there was such a thing. I had never heard of it," said Sally Marshall, Lincoln.

That's until she got the orders from her doctor.

"He said, 'You know, I don't want you do any exercises on your ankle on your feet. You may go to the arthritic exercise," Marshall said.

So now, Marshall attends class twice a week.

"It's a general way to exercise your joints and your muscles," said Marilyn Regueira, Water Aerobics Instructor, LifePointe.

Regueira has taught water aerobics for 20 years. She said the 45 minutes classes include a warm up, some stretching, strength exercises and a cool down and she believes in the end results.

"It helps them keep their joints moving. It helps them increase their flexibility and also help improve their strength and helps to improve their range of motion," Regueira said.

The water in the pool is usually 92 degrees. Instructors say the heat helps improve your circulation, which, in turn, helps your mobility.

Regueira said the water acts like a natural support for your arms and legs, easing the pressure on your joints without damaging them. Most arthritis sufferers find they can exercise and be virtually pain-free in the water.

"One of the ladies earlier in the class had indicated she has been taking medication -- and this is not what will happen to everybody -- but she is no longer taking joint medication or arthritis medication. She attributes that to the fact that she is exercising several days in the warm water," Regueira said.

"We have ladies with shoulder problems and knee problems and hip problems, and it's really important that this is a gentle way of getting strengthened," Marshall said.

After a year of water therapy, Marshall's convinced it works, at least for her.

"I think just the warm water is so reassuring and does make some of the pain go away right off the bat," Marshall said.

Of course, anyone who suffers from arthritis or joint pain should talk it over with their doctor before attending a class.

If you're interested in seeing the water arthritis therapy schedule at LifePointe, click here. You do not have to be a LifePointe member to attend the classes.