Osteoarthritis is a common type of arthritis, impacting millions globally. It happens when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones gradually worsens. Degenerative arthritis, degenerative joint disease, and wear-and-tear arthritis are alternatives for Osteoarthritis. However, if you have joint pain or stiffness that doesn’t go away, make an appointment with the best orthopedic hospital in Hyderabad for early diagnosis and possible prevention of Osteoarthritis
Where two bones meet, there is a joint. The tissue that protects the edges of the bones is called cartilage. This cartilage deteriorates in OA, which causes the bones in the joint to rub against one another. Pain, stiffness, and other symptoms may result from this.
Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint. However, the areas of the body most often affected are the hands, fingers, shoulder, hips, knees, and spine(neck or lower back). Although it can happen to humans of any age, it most frequently affects elderly individuals.
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Ways to Ease Osteoarthritis Pain
Arthritis can be unpleasant. Distressing. And exhausting. It might make you uneasy. It may irritate you or possibly stop you from engaging in all of your favorite activities. But, the good news is that you may live with Osteoarthritis Treatment and live well with proper techniques for osteoarthritis pain relief.
Osteoarthritis pain medications aren’t the only approach to ease the pain associated with Osteoarthritis (OA). They might not even be necessary. You can take care of a lot of joint pain and stiffness. Exercise, at-home pain relievers, and minor lifestyle adjustments are easy ways to improve your OA symptoms.
Be Active
You might believe that to rest your aching joints; you should remain on the couch. But regular exercise relieves Osteoarthritis symptoms. It makes your joints more flexible. Your muscles that support your joints become stronger and as a result, falls by a lack of balance are avoided.
So, if you can, try to exercise every day. Start with easy exercises like taking your dog or a buddy for a walk. Then, join a yoga, tai chi, or water fitness class. Next, grab a seat on the stationary bike in your living room. Consult your doctor, nurse, or physical therapist before beginning a new exercise regimen. They can assist you in moving forward at a manageable speed and relieve any osteoarthritis pain in knee.
Use Cold and Hot Compresses
After a workout, icing can help relieve discomfort and inflammation. It’s practical to use reusable cold packs. However, they must not be left on the skin for longer than 20 minutes at a time. Before exercising, a little heating pad or a few minutes in a hot tub might help to loosen up stiff joints and ease mobility.
Hot Compress
You can use a hot compress when a joint is stiff, slightly sore, or just exhausted after a lot of activity. Additionally, you can use it to loosen stiff joints before working out or going to the office.
Cold Compress
Use a cold compress when your joint is more painful or mildly swollen.
A heated moist heating pad, a warm shower or bath, or a dip in a jetted bathtub are all simple heat treatments. Wrap your aching joint with a wet washcloth that has been warmed in the microwave for a few seconds. Just be mindful not to apply anything hot to your skin directly.
Use a bag of frozen vegetables or crushed ice wrapped in a soft towel and apply it to your achy joint for up to 20 minutes for rapid cold relief. Gel packs help when joint pain flares up.
Use Proper Footwear
The right shoes can reduce OA pain by reducing pressure on your joints. Select footwear with short heels and a snug fit. When you walk, you should feel secure. Ensure your shoes are the correct size. There should be around 3/4 inches between the longest toe and the front of the shoe. Your shoe shouldn’t slip off or move up and down the back of your heel when you walk.
You could want roomier shoes if you have bony lumps on your toes due to OA. Look for styles that use Velcro to close. It’s simpler to put them on and take them off.
Walking Aids
If your leg occasionally “gives way,” a stick could make you feel less anxious about falling. It can also ease pressure on a sore hip or knee when held in the opposite hand. For guidance on which side to use a stick-on, it is preferable to consult a medical expert. This is because your purpose for using a stick will affect this decision.
Better Sleep
While it’s essential to stay active, it’s equally important to get enough rest. Better sleep will help you feel less tired and is the best osteoarthritis pain killer, whereas insufficient sleep will undoubtedly make you feel more tired (along with your pain). 4 Create a comfortable sleeping environment in your bedroom and adopt healthy Routines To Aid In A Restful Night’s Sleep.
Weight Management
Having extra weight can strain your joints and hurt them. Losing some weight eases this pressure and lessens pain. In addition, your chance of developing additional health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease, can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight.
Use Braces, Splints, Inserts, and Physical Therapy
Inflammation and pain can sometimes be minimized by immobilizing or relieving the strain on an arthritic joint. In addition, special splints and knee braces can aid other problematic areas. However, it’s significant to note that while these tools can reduce your symptoms, they do not address the underlying causes of pain.
The Final Word
Because it can limit your movement, OA can be a difficult condition to manage. There are many different types of treatments available. Exercise and weight loss are also beneficial for battling OA. Consult your physician, and keep yourself informed and active.