Researchers have found that arthritis is caused by a variety of factors combined between the environment and your body. Improper alignment of joints, increased stress on a former injury, and increased weight could contribute to the development of arthritis. Arthritis most commonly affects the hips, feet, hands, knees, and spine. Symptoms of arthritis include mild to severe joint pain and stiffness in the joints. (Osteoarthritis, n.d.)
What are ways for older adults to help decrease their arthritis symptoms?
– Exercise regularly
– Apply heat or ice packs
– If you have excess weight, try losing weight to take stress off of joints
– Participate in yoga or tai chi
– Try acupuncture or go to a massage therapist
– Talk to your primary care provider about your symptoms and discuss treatment
– Participate in physical and occupational therapy. Therapists can help you increase strength, decrease pain with modalities, educate individuals and caregivers on home modifications to help decrease unnecessary repetitive joint movements.
(Mayo Clinic, 2021)
Resources Utilized:
1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Osteoarthritis. National Institute on Aging. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/osteoarthritis#:~:text=Osteoarthritis%20treatment%20plans%20often%20include,that%20can%20cure%20the%20condition.
2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, September 15). Arthritis. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350777
