August 15, 2006
Arthritis Information
Natalie Buening, Pharm D. Candidate, Butler University
It's summer and time for a variety of activities such as fishing and berry picking. However, some might find that it's getting harder to do these fun activities. This could be due to a condition called Osteoarthritis, which affects more than 66 million people in America.
Osteoarthritis is due to a wearing away of the protective material found between the bones called cartilage. Usually this occurs in the hands, knees, hips and lower back. As a result, the bones can start to rub together causing the following symptoms:
- Joint soreness after periods of overuse or inactivity.
- Stiffness after periods of rest that goes away quickly when activity resumes.
- Morning stiffness, which usually lasts no more than 30 minutes.
- Pain caused by the weakening of muscles surrounding the joint due to inactivity.
- Joint pain is usually less in the morning and worse in the evening after a day's activity.
- Decreased posture and walking due to pain and stiffness.
- Pain when walking up and down stairs or getting up from a chair.
If you are experiencing any of these signs and symptoms you should see your doctor right away because there are treatments available, but some of the following activities can be done on a daily basis to help lessen the pain and stiffness without having to take medicine.
- Exercise: a small amount of activity on a daily basis, such as walking, can strengthen muscles and bone, decrease pain and improve mobility. Don't worry; light exercise won't make the condition worse.
- Weight control: Maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight if you are overweight can lessen pain on the joints, especially the knees.
- Take frequent breaks: Take a 15 minute break each hour during activities to give your body a break from standing or sitting too long.
- Rotate activities: Rotate such activities as cleaning; don't do everything in one day. Plan ahead for cooking and shopping so you minimize extra trips and rushing around for something you forgot.
- Relax: Establish a nightly routine that includes things that relax you, such as reading, drinking herbal tea, or listening to soothing music. This can help you get a good night's sleep, which can help lessen the pain during the day.