Dealing With Osteoarthritis
Does lifting a book or a bag cause pain in your hand or shoulder? Does bending down to pick up a brown boot on the floor prove to be very difficult? If yes, then it’s possible that you already have osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is just one form of arthritis. And it’s the most common too. It goes by other names as well, including: degenerative arthritis, OA, wear-and-tear arthritis and osteoarthrosis. This disease can affect any joint in your body. However, it usually affects the knees, hips, back and hands.
It happens when the cartilage providing cushioning between your bone joints become damaged. A person suffering from osteoarthritis usually experiences pain and swelling in the affected areas. The normal range of motion becomes limited too. There are many risk factors for this disease. It can be because of age, obesity, injury or overuse of a joint, and even hereditary factors.
If you’re suffering from this joint disease, there are ways to effectively reduce the signs and symptoms. But first, it’s important to visit a doctor. An examination should reveal whether it’s actually osteoarthritis you’re suffering from. Based on the findings, your doctor will come up with a suitable mode of treatment.
Medications will be likely prescribed. Analgesics will help you with pain relief. For the swelling, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be administered. There are also certain medications given through injection, for severe cases.
Adapting a healthy eating habit is important. If you’re overweight, losing excess pounds will help relieve your joints from too much pressure. Also, eating the right types of foods will supply the right kinds and amounts of nutrients necessary for speedy recovery.
Mild exercises also help in alleviating the pain and improving your limited range of motion. Which exercises to perform should come from an occupational or physical therapist. Performing the right exercises will help strengthen the bones and muscles. It will also help in increasing the flexibility of the affected joints.
Glucosamine is a type of protein produced by the body, and is necessary for building and repairing cartilages. But as you age, its production wears down. That’s why taking supplements like Kirkland glucosamine tablets will assist regaining the health of your joints. Omega-3 fatty acids, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) and chrondroitin are other substances known to be beneficial for the joints.
If you will adhere to your doctor’s recommendations, in no time you will benefit from them. You can perform much of your given up activities, such as using an ibanez acoustic electric guitar or playing with your kids. But for severe osteoarthritis cases, undergoing operation may be necessary for relief.
