Arthritis Sufferers Should Simplify Tasks to Reduce Pain

People with arthritis should protect their joints by refraining from painful activities and pausing to think through ways to help protect their joints, according to an occupational therapist at the University of Michigan Health System.

Occupational therapist Carole Dodge said arthritis sufferers can reduce pain and decrease fatigue by simplifying everyday movements. To protect the joints, Dodge urges:

• Using the largest and strongest joint possible to do a task, such as a shoulder and hip to shut the door.
• Refraining from starting an activity that cannot be stopped right away should it be beyond one's ability to complete, such as taking the turkey out of the oven on Thanksgiving Day.
• Using good posture.
• Controling weight to reduce stress on joints.
• Using tools with enlarged grips.

Helpful energy conservation practices, according to Dodge, include:

• Spreading heavy and light tasks throughout the day.
• Avoiding rushing.
• Organizing to eliminate unnecessary tasks like reaching or carrying, by sliding pots and pans from oven to sink, or using a cart to clear the dinner table.
• Sitting while performing chores such as washing dishes and ironing.
• Resting before fatigue hits.
• Getting rid of cast iron or ceramic bowls and pans and replacing them with plastic or aluminum.
• Using electric appliances.
• Using large-handled brushes, utensils or pens to avoid having to tightly grasp objects.
  

Dodge also advocates exercising to gain flexibility, strength and endurance, noting that occupational therapists favor exercises such as swimming, walking and biking for arthritis patients.

"Everything we do in occupational therapy is with the goal of helping patients retain their independence as long as possible," says Dodge. "There is so much that can be done to work through those difficulties in a very positive matter. No one should ever give up."

Other sources: University of Michigan Health System