Common Sense Help for Arthritis Pain (Spring 2001)
Osteoarthritis is the wearing away of the cartilage lining that allows joints to move smoothly. When this lining deteriorates, it can cause pain, irritation and stiffness in the joint. According to orthopedic surgeon, Stephen R. Hribar, MD, "For many arthritis sufferers, the quality of daily life is diminished by joint pain. Patients often note that it hurts to stand up, it hurts to bend over, it hurts to hold on and it hurts to let go." The good news is that joint pain, along with stiffness and swelling, can be managed effectively for most people. What can you do about joint pain? Dr. Hribar recommends the following:
Exercise helps to strengthen muscles, tendons and ligaments so they can better support the joint. It also contributes to weight loss, which reduces stress on an arthritic hip or knee. Swimming – preferably in a warm pool – is a recommended exercise for joint pain. Walking, cycling and other low-impact activities can also be effective.
Balance activity with rest. Overworking an arthritic joint can aggravate symptoms, but getting too little activity can also be detrimental because it leads to weakened muscles. Find a comfortable balance between activity and rest. Take short breaks during the day, and alternate between demanding and easy tasks.
Take your medications. Mild joint pain and swelling can be treated by over-the-counter drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Severe symptoms may require treatment with a prescription-strength medication. Be sure to take your medication as instructed. Then, give it time to work. It may take several days or weeks before some prescription medications begin providing lasting relief.
Change the way you do things. Do you find it difficult to tie your shoes? Consider getting elastic laces, so your feet can slip right in. Do you have trouble reaching overhead? Try using a grabber to reach high objects. If your fingers hurt, use a pizza cutter instead of a knife to cut food. Avoid clothes with small buttons or zippers in the back. Or consider using a cane, crutches or walker to take pressure off an arthritic, weight-bearing joint. There are many other clever ways to compensate for an arthritic joint. Some retail stores sell handy devices that make everyday tasks easier, and organizations such as The Arthritis Foundation may offer additional information and product catalogs.
Talk with your doctor. Within that last few years, new treatment options have become available to help you manage joint pain. These include medications that reduce swelling and pain while minimizing side effects such as stomach upset. Patients with arthritis of the knee also may benefit from injections of a newer substance called hyaluronic acid directly into the joint to help cushion and lubricate it. Your doctor is your best source of information on these and other treatments for joint pain.
