Osteoarthritis 101: Symptoms, Management, and How Home Care Can Help

Have you felt uncomfortable aches or tightness in your joints following periods of inactivity or excessive use? There’s a chance you’re affected by osteoarthritis (OA), the most typical form of arthritis. So, what is taking place within your body? The breakdown of cartilage material results in the bones rubbing against each other, leading to stiffness, pain and a reduction in mobility in the joint. This type of arthritis generally has an effect on the hips, hands, knees, lower back and neck.

If you think that osteoarthritis could be impacting your life, Home & Hearth Caregivers suggests getting a complete physical exam by a healthcare provider – and we’re on hand to provide helpful Hinsdale, IL home care assistance.

The information below can help you understand the symptoms of osteoarthritis, plus strategies to help effectively manage the condition.

Osteoarthritis Symptoms:

Pain or stiffness in joints following periods of inactivity or excessive use.
Grating or “catching” experience in the course of joint movement.
Bony growths at the margins of affected joints.

Management of Osteoarthritis:

Treatment approaches often entail a blend of medications, rest, physical activity, joint protection, use of heat or cold to lower pain, and physical or occupational therapy.
Many individuals with osteoarthritis use pain medications such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to lessen joint pain, stiffness and swelling.
Physical activity keeps joints pliable and maintains or improves muscle strength.
Joint protection reduces the risk of strain or stress on painful joints.
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for prevention of and to slow the progression of osteoarthritis impacting the weight-bearing joints (knees and hips) and lower back.
Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid derivatives can sometimes be injected into joints that are not responding to treatment.

Home & Hearth Caregivers, the Hinsdale, IL home care specialists, can help someone with osteoarthritis to be as independent as possible. Contact us for more information on private duty care, and to find a partner in care to help with the many effects of osteoarthritis. Just a few of the ways we can help include:

Safe, dependable transportation to medical appointments and procedures
Running errands such as picking up prescriptions and groceries
Offering a cheerful companion to encourage physical activity
Preparation of healthy, delicious meals
And much more

Call Home & Hearth Caregivers at 800-349-0663 to learn more!
*Tips courtesy of the Arthritis Foundation