Osteoarthritis is difficult to deal with, especially among the elderly.
Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis that affects millions globally. This disorder or medical condition is caused by the wearing off of protective cartilage that shields the edges of the bone. The damage to the joints is permanent, even though the symptoms of osteoarthritis are still manageable.
Different complications could arise when a person has osteoarthritis.
Among these complications are:
- Chondrolysis (complete breakdown of cartilage)
- Deterioration of tendons and ligaments
- Inner bleeding of joints
- Infection of the joints
- Osteonecrosis (bone death)
- Pinched nerve
People affected with osteoarthritis find it troublesome. This is due to the capacity of osteoarthritis to alter or impact the life of a person. This condition could lead to disability and discomfort. Numerous patients have expressed their problems concerning sleep disturbances and depression due to osteoarthritis.
Reduce Your Stress and Osteoarthritis Pain With the Following Tips:
- Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the many ways to reduce the stress brought on by osteoarthritis. This is a traditional Chinese medicine that utilizes thin needles to target specific skin points. This method is used to treat certain types of pain.
The practitioners believe that by inserting these needles, they can rebalance the flow of chi, energy flow, or life energy in a person’s body. It is believed that this practice stimulates connective tissues, muscles, and nerves. Thus, this serves as the body’s natural painkiller.
- Bathe to Relax
Bathing could also reduce stress and pain for those suffering from osteoarthritis. Having a warm bath can help loosen inflammation in the joints that leads to arthritis and its symptoms. Also, you can add Epsom salts to help mitigate the pain and swelling since they contain magnesium. Magnesium relaxes the body’s muscles and stiff joints.
- Be creative/Find a hobby
Sometimes, the stress and disability brought on by osteoarthritis can lead to mental health problems such as depression. By unleashing your creativity and finding a hobby, you can redirect your attention and allow you to distress and relax from the physical nuisance brought on by osteoarthritis and other troubles in your life.
- Warm or Cold Compress
The general rule is to use a cold compress for acute injuries, swelling, and inflammation. Contrastingly, utilize a warm compress for muscle pain and stiffness. However, the main question is, when should you use warm or cold compress?
In the instances of osteoarthritis, it is best to experiment whether what suits you the best. A warm compress can ease pain and stiffness by increasing your blood flow. On the other hand, a cold compress is best to reduce swelling.
- Keep a healthy and balanced diet
Although no proven food or supplement can heal osteoarthritis, a healthy and balanced diet can improve its symptoms. Other foods may contain anti-inflammatory capacities that are beneficial for those with osteoarthritis.
Foods containing antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, and E can suppress additional damage to the joints and bones. Another factor that should be considered when you have osteoarthritis is reducing cholesterol. Cholesterol is also responsible for cartilage breakage, leading to osteoarthritis.
Suggested food to eat:
- Extra virgin olive oils
- Omega 3
- Dairy (Calcium and Vit. D)
- Nuts
- Garlic
- Green leafy vegetables
- Broccoli
- Green Tea
- Lose Weight
Losing extra weight is important for people who suffer from osteoarthritis and other joint problems since the additional kilogram increase brings more stress to your bones and joints.
The key to maintaining a good weight is a healthy and balanced diet. Also, you can add exercise into your daily routine so that you can naturally eliminate excess weight and lessen your overall stress.
- Massages
Periodic massage is a terrific way to distress. Massage can have significant benefits, especially in chronic osteoarthritis. This is because the pain is alleviated as the muscles encircling the joints are relaxed. Stiffness is released, allowing for a better range of motion and mobility. The benefits of massage include, but are not limited to, decreased stress, increased relaxation, and a better sense of well-being.
- Meditation
Meditation is a beneficial method to help you achieve tranquillity and peace of mind.
First, you sit on the floor or in a chair in a cross-legged position or with both feet on the floor. Then, take deep breaths and find that calm and smooth rhythm. Lastly, aim to focus on a point or idea in your mind while clearing thoughts that bother you.
- Sustain Regular Exercise Habits
Regular exercise has a couple of benefits for your physical and mental health as it increases your range of motion and releases endorphins. However, you should consult your doctor first on what exercises to take since you do not want to increase strain on your body.
Here are some exercises suitable for osteoarthritis:
- Short and brisk walks
- Climbing up and down stairs
- Riding a stationary bike
For better endurance:
- Tai chi
- Yoga
- Swimming
- Water Aerobics
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but we can mitigate and alleviate its symptoms. Remember these simple but helpful tips for reducing stress caused by osteoarthritis pain. Also, for better results and progress in the medical field concerning this medical condition, you can help our researchers and join osteoarthritis new treatment.