Joint effort to live well with arthritis

From localmatters.co.nz 

For many people, one of the more painful effects of getting older is the onset of osteoarthritis (OA), a joint condition that affects one in 10 New Zealanders.

Symptoms vary from person to person, but they usually include pain, stiffness and swelling, which can in turn lead to muscle weakness, according to Warkworth physiotherapist Victoria McKechnie.

“When joints hurt, people tend to move less, which can result in muscles becoming weaker. Weakened muscles can’t properly support the joints, which may, in turn, worsen the pain and discomfort,” she says.

However, there are ways to manage arthritis, with movement being one of the most important.

“A diagnosis of OA can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to know that there are many ways to manage the condition and continue to live a fulfilling life,” McKechnie says.

“While it may seem counterintuitive to move a painful joint, research shows that keeping joints active can actually improve symptoms over time. Remember, joints that are used regularly are less likely to deteriorate rapidly, while those left unused tend to worsen.”

For most people, the key to managing OA involves a combination of education, movement, support, and occasionally, medical intervention.

“Although some individuals may require surgery, such as joint replacements, research shows that many people can significantly improve their symptoms without needing surgical treatment.”

McKechnie suggests the following tips for living well with OA:

• Build your support team
To manage OA, having the right team of registered healthcare professionals is crucial. GPs and pharmacists are essential for managing any medication. A physiotherapist can help develop a movement plan tailored to individual needs, while a dietitian or registered nutritionist can help with weight management.

• Exercise and movement
Movement is one of the most important ways to manage OA. A physiotherapist can design a personalised exercise plan that focuses on strengthening the muscles around joints and improving mobility.

• Weight management
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to reduce OA symptoms. Research consistently shows that managing weight, building lean muscle and reducing body fat can have a significant impact on joint health. A balanced diet and regular exercise can go a long way in helping to manage OA more effectively.

• Get educated (New Zealand)
Understanding OA and what you can do to manage it is a powerful tool. Reputable sources include Arthritis New Zealand and the NZ OA Handbook (available online). Healthcare providers can also provide resources for more information.

“While osteoarthritis can present challenges, it’s important to know that there are many tools and strategies available to help you manage the condition,” McKechnie adds. “If you’re experiencing symptoms, reach out to healthcare providers for guidance and support – there’s no need to face OA alone.”

https://www.localmatters.co.nz/health/joint-effort-to-live-well-with-arthritis/