There are over 100 different forms of arthritis. Of all the many forms such as rheumatoid, psoriatic, fibromyalgia and gout, osteoarthritis is the most common type found in older Americans. It most often affects the joints of the hands, knees, hips, and spine. According to the Arthritis Foundation, the CDC reports that one-third of all adults with arthritis say that it limits their leisure activities and work, and 25 percent say it causes severe pain.
The Pain of Osteoarthritis
The pain of osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage, the protective cushion that lies between joints. The degeneration of this tissue ultimately results in bone rubbing against bone and can cause mild to severe pain. Fortunately, as the family caregiver, there are steps you can take to help ensure your loved one’s safety and help keep them active and engaged, despite the effects of arthritis.
Movement
Depending on where the arthritis is occurring, this may be the last thing your parent feels like doing. It should be, however, one of their top priorities. Exercise can actually help reduce the pain and help stabilize joints by increasing the strength of the surrounding muscles. It also improves balance, helping to decrease the possibility of falls and injuries. Exercises that are easy on the joints include water aerobics, swimming, Tai Chi, yoga, stationary bicycling and walking. There are even exercise classes designed specifically for those with arthritis and can often be found at the local senior community center or YMCA.
Diet
Losing any excess weight should be another top priority for your parent. Every extra pound of body weight puts four extra pounds of pressure on the knee joints. Foods that are anti-inflammatory include those found in the Mediterranean Diet such as salmon, berries, garlic, olive oil, beans, leafy greens and other vegetables. Food should be as close to natural as possible, avoiding the processed and packaged varieties. Turmeric, the herb that gives curry its bright yellow color, has been shown to reduce the pain of osteoarthritis. Half of a group of 50 people suffering from this type of arthritis were given a turmeric formulation. After 90 days, those that took turmeric were found to have a 58 percent decrease in overall pain and stiffness as well as improved function.
Topical Treatment
Your parent’s physician may have them on specific medications to help control pain. In addition, they can apply ice and heat packs in 20-minute increments. The ice takes down inflammation and the heat relaxes surrounding muscles. Topical ointments that contain capsaicin or salicylates have been shown to be effective in reducing pain.
Elder Care Provider
An elder care provider can assist your parent with the everyday tasks of living. They can accompany them on walks, prepare healthy meals and provide the companionship so important to remaining strong and engaged as one ages.
For more information about how the caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare can help your aging parents remain in their own homes, call 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable senior care in La Jolla, CA, and the surrounding communities.
Resources
http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/pain-management/understanding/types-of-pain.php
http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/comorbidities/obesity-arthritis/fat-and-arthritis.php
http://www.everydayhealth.com/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-caregiving.aspx
https://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/body-mind-spirit/bone-joint/turmeric-for-arthritis/
http://www.healthline.com/health/arthritis/creams#how-theywork2
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