Arthritis is a condition that impacts many people, not just the elderly. In fact, over 21% of adults in the U.S., translating to around 53 million people, live with arthritis, making it the leading cause of disability in the country.1 According to the National Library of Medicine, arthritis can cause significant limitations in activity, chronic pain, and disability. May is recognized as Arthritis Awareness Month, and in honor of this, we offer some practical tips to help manage arthritis symptoms like pain, swelling, and joint stiffness using user-friendly pill organizers, compression therapy, and natural remedies.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis encompasses a range of conditions involving pain, tenderness, and inflammation of the joints. Symptoms can include joint stiffness, redness, and a reduced range of motion. While the term "arthritis" covers more than 100 different types of joint issues, it's not limited to older adults. In fact, about two-thirds of people with arthritis are under 65. Besides age, other risk factors include family history, gender, and previous joint injuries.
The Impact of Arthritis
Arthritis is a chronic condition without a definitive cure, affecting daily activities and overall mobility. Symptoms vary widely, from mild discomfort to severe pain. For some, symptoms may be constant, while others experience fluctuating pain. In severe cases, arthritis can even impact other organs such as the heart, eyes, lungs, kidneys, and skin.
Daily Challenges and Management Strategies
Arthritis can affect a wide range of daily activities, including grasping objects, reaching overhead, sitting for extended periods, lifting weights, climbing stairs, pushing or pulling heavy items, walking, standing, and bending. Managing these activities effectively is crucial for maintaining a good quality of life.
Here are some strategies to help alleviate symptoms:
Utilize Pain-Relief Tools: If you are on medication for arthritis, using a pill planner can be very helpful. A push-button pill organizer reduces the effort needed to access medications, thanks to its easy-to-use design.
Apply Heat and Cold Therapy: Depending on your symptoms, alternating between hot and cold therapy can provide relief. Cold therapy reduces swelling and inflammation by constricting blood vessels and slowing blood flow, and should be applied for no longer than 15-20 minutes at a time. Heat therapy, on the other hand, helps loosen stiff joints and sore muscles by improving circulation. You can use a heating pad, hot water bottle, or enjoy a warm bath.
Use Compression Therapy: Compression wraps can help reduce swelling, decrease pain, and support your joints during daily activities by enhancing circulation.
Maintain an Active Lifestyle: Keeping your joints moving through their full range of motion is important. Good posture and avoiding overexertion are also essential. A balanced diet and regular exercise strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and maintain joint health. Anti-inflammatory diets, such as Mediterranean or keto diets, can be particularly beneficial.
Stay Connected with Healthcare Providers: Monitor your symptoms and consult your doctor if you notice any changes or worsening of your condition.
By employing these strategies, you can manage arthritis symptoms more effectively and improve your quality of life. Whether using easy-open pill organizers or incorporating hot and cold therapies, these tools and practices can make a significant difference in managing arthritis.
