Living With Osteoarthritis – Managing the Symptoms

 As we get older the cartilage covering our joints become worn, resulting osteoarthritis. This condition manifests itself in the form of joint pain and stiffness and, while there is no cure for this chronic disease, there are treatments and measures that can be taken to reduce suffering.

It may seem counter-intuitive to reduce joint pain by increasing your movement, however, exercise is proven to be incredibly beneficial in reducing osteoarthritis symptoms. Rather than wearing down the cartilage further, strengthening exercises will alleviate pain, through building up the surrounding muscles, reducing strain put on the joints. Exercises that focus on range of motion are also excellent for improving the condition, as they encourage flexibility of the joints and reduce stiffness. Choose exercises that work the joints but that aren't too strenuous. Taking a brisk walk, or joining a relaxing class such as yoga or tai chi, that gently uses your muscles, will keep your body working to support your bones and joints. For less impact while working out, swimming or water aerobics both engage muscles while avoiding putting force on the joints.

Linked to exercise, maintaining a healthy weight is integral to relieving osteoarthritic symptoms. Excess weight can add additional pressure to weight-bearing joints such as the hips, knees, feet and back bone. Losing this extra weight, and then maintaining a healthy one, will reduce pain and restrict further damage to cartilage. Combined with living an active and healthy lifestyle, medications are available that can reduce symptoms, such as pain and inflammation around the joints, making it more manageable.

Physical, or occupational, therapists can teach osteoarthritis patients the best ways to use, and move, joints to prevent further wear and tear of the cartilage. As well as introducing range of motion and flexibility exercises, thermotherapy treatments may be suggested to mediate symptoms. Cold treatments are effective at numbing pain, decreasing swelling, and blocking nerve impulses to the joints while heat therapy will improve blood circulation and relax muscles, removing tension. Often a combination of the two techniques are used, applying heat in the morning to loosen up joints, followed by cold treatment later in the day to reducing any swelling that builds up.

Although steps can be taken to reduce osteoarthritic suffering, assistive devices may become necessary. These can range from walking aids, such as walking sticks or specially modified shoes, to devices that help in carrying out everyday activities. Kneelers for gardening, extenders for door knobs and taps, and clothing that is easier to fasten are all available so that patients can keep their everyday lives as normal as possible.