Tag Archives: osteoarthritis

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

ARTHRITIS SAFETY (GUEST POST)

Arthritis is one of the most common disabilities in the United States, affecting about 21 million adults, according to a National Health Interview Survey from 2007-2009. Arthritis is a term used to describe hundreds of rheumatic diseases and conditions, from fibromyalgia to rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions affect the joints, tissue around the joints, and other connective tissue.
 
Since this disability is so widespread in America, it is important that people with arthritis take the necessary precautions to ease their pain and joint stress. While arthritis is incurable, there are steps people can take to ensure their safety, health, and comfort. 
 
 
Be Conscious of Medications
Many anti-inflammatory medications taken by arthritis sufferers have dangerous interactions with over-the-counter medication. It is important to discuss every medication you take with your doctor. 
 
Prescription arthritis medication also has serious side effects. The most commonly used arthritis medications, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), are known to cause stomach problems, heart attacks, and strokes. These side effects can be combated by taking the prescription with food or antacids. 
 
DMARDs (disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) are more invasive than NSAIDs and can cause kidney and liver damage. It is important to take frequent blood tests when taking DMARDs.  
 
Protect Your Joints
The use of splints and braces can aid in joint protection. There are other assistive devices like jar openers, raised toilet seats, and “grabbers” that can be used to accomplish basic tasks. 
 
Good posture can also protect the back and joints, as well. Practicing proper body mechanics will make your body move more efficiently. If you work in an office, use wrist support while typing. When you’re sitting down, be sure to have both back and foot support.  
 
Exercise
Regular exercise can improve joint flexibility and make them stronger. Water exercises reduce the stress on joints. Look to the internet for exercise options http://arthritis.answers.com/management arthritis management. 
It has been proven that weight loss can significantly reduce the stress on weight-bearing joints. Losing weight can improve mobility and decrease the need for joint replacement in the future.  
 
Get Proper Sleep
The pain and difficulty that comes with walking can reduce the energy level of arthritis sufferers. In order for a person with arthritis to function at a higher level (both mentally and physically), they must get a proper amount of sleep. 
 
 
Stay Healthy
According to the http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/ Center for Disease Control  (CDC), people with arthritis are at a higher risk for respiratory infections and the flu. Also, adding Omega-3 fatty acids will greatly decrease stiffness. They naturally reduce inflammation in the body. 
 
Vitamin C is another helpful addition to a diet. It helps the body build collagen and connective tissue. Using olive oil when cooking, instead of butter or other oils. Oleocanthal, the compound found in olive oil, works to prevent inflammation and provides about as much relief as a dose of ibuprofen. 
 
By Liam Garcia
 
General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

DO YOU HAVE TROUBLE “GETTING A GRIP” ON THINGS?

Lately, I have noticed pain in my right thumb and wrist.  Because I use a computer so often,  I am concerned that it could be carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).  Osteoarthritis could be another cause, but thankfully, there is relief for both.  The median nerve provides feeling and movement to the “thumb side” of the hand (the palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and thumb side of the ring finger).The area in your wrist where the nerve enters the hand is called the carpal tunnel. This tunnel is normally narrow,  so any swelling can pinch the nerve and cause pain, numbness, tingling or weakness. This is called carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is common in people who perform repetitive motions of the hand and wrist. Typing on a computer keyboard is probably the most common cause of carpal tunnel. The condition occurs most often in people 30 to 60 years old, and is more common in women than men.

Other causes include:

  • Sewing
  • Driving
  • Assembly line work
  • Painting
  • Writing
  • Use of tools (especially hand tools or tools that vibrate)
  • Sports such as racquetball or handball
  • Playing some musical instruments

Symptoms:

  • Numbness or tingling in the thumb and next two or three fingers of one or both hands
  • Numbness or tingling of the palm of the hand
  • Pain extending to the elbow
  • Pain in wrist or hand in one or both hands
  • Problems with fine finger movements (coordination) in one or both hands
  • Wasting away of the muscle under the thumb (in advanced or long-term cases)
  • Weak grip or difficulty carrying bags (a common complaint)
  • Weakness in one or both hands
  • Pain in thumb when trying to open a jar or door.

Don’t hesitate to consult with your doctor, if you have any of the above symptoms.  The doctor may find:

  • Numbness in the palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and thumb side of the ring finger
  • Weak hand grip
  • Tapping over the median nerve at the wrist may cause pain to shoot from the wrist to the hand (this is called Tinel’s sign)
  • Bending the wrist forward all the way for 60 seconds will usually result in numbness, tingling, or weakness (this is called Phalen’s test)

CTS symptoms may last beyond six months, but can be surgically relieved.  This procedure will release the pressure on the median nerve.  With older adults (me), osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage padding your finger and hand joints begin to wear away.  There are many home treatments.  Your physician may give you certain exercises that will help to lessen your hand pain.  Try hot or cold applications to ease pain, or splinting your thumb or wrist to give it a rest.  Ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin can all help to reduce the swelling of arthritis.  A cortisone shot will give longer-term relief.   Try to keep your joints active, before CTS or osteoarthritis “get a grip” on you!

Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians, American Society for Surgery of the Hand; National Institute on Aging; National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases,  AARP/Strive.