How to Live with Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is inflammation in the bone or joints. This condition, also known as degenerative joint disease, afflicts mostly adults over 45 years of age. It is caused by a deterioration of the cartilage that cushions joints. Osteoarthritis is typically felt in weight-bearing joints, but it may also target fingers, wrists, shoulders and sometimes even the spine. Symptoms can often be relieved, but the changes in your joints are permanent. In some cases, pain and loss of mobility may affect quality of life. Learning how to live with osteoarthritis means learning how to change your lifestyle and habits to deal with the pain and discomfort that the condition may cause, as well as taking preventative measures to prevent additional damage to already affected joints.

Instructions

• 1

  Stay active. This is one of the best things you can do to deal with pain caused by osteoarthritis. Exercise may also help to relieve stiffness caused by the condition. Walking, light weight-bearing exercises and activities such as gardening and light yard work often increase mobility and decrease pain for many. At least 20 minutes of exercise daily will help improve your balance, coordination and stability, as well as increasing your flexibility and strengthening your muscles, tendons and ligaments.

• 2

  Protect your joints. This is very important when living with osteoarthritis. Use adequate support—such as canes, walkers or other support devices—when walking, if needed. Maintain a healthy weight to help reduce stress on compromised joint tissues and obtain easier mobility and range of motion.

• 3

  Rearrange furniture in the house. This can provide easier movement and increased safety in a home environment. Leave adequate space around pieces of furniture to allow easy access when moving from one room to another. Use walking aids in cleared paths or areas to further increase your safety factor.

• 4

  Apply ergonomics to your daily chores. For example, install handrails in the bathroom for added support and stability. Keep objects necessary for cooking between waist and chest level, and avoid excessive reaching or stooping when completing indoor and outdoor chores. When lifting any object, bend at the knees and lift with the legs, not the back.

• 5

  Wear adequate shoe support. This can make a big difference in not only comfort, but support as well. In addition, sleeping on a firm mattress will help to relieve those suffering from osteoarthritis in the spine.