Rheumatoid arthritis and driving: What to know

From medicalnewstoday.com

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a form of inflammatory arthritis that may impair a person’s ability to drive. However, various assistive devices and modifications can help a person maintain their driving independence 

Although there is no evidence to suggest that people with RA have a higher risk of motor vehicle accidents than those without, the condition can make certain aspects of driving — including getting in and out of the car and checking to the left and right — more difficult.

This article discusses how RA affects a person’s ability to drive. It also provides tips on how to maintain safe driving and options to consider when a person can no longer drive safely.

How rheumatoid arthritis affects the ability to drive

RA is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body, leading to inflammation.

Although many people associate RA with joint pain and stiffness, the condition can also affectTrusted Sourceother areas of the body, including the organs. The combined effect of pain, stiffness, fatigue, and other signs and symptoms can reduce a person’s ability to drive a car comfortably and safely.

In a 2020 reviewTrusted Source, researchers looked at the prevalence of driving issues among people living with RA. They found that it was quite common for these individuals to experience difficulty when driving and to need assistive devices to help them safely operate a vehicle.

In a 2021 studyTrusted Source, researchers looked at how RA affects driving ability. They noted that an increase in disease activity correlated with an increase in variability when braking and accelerating on high speed roads.

RA can affect a person’s ability to drive in various ways, including:

• pain and stiffness in the hands and wrists can make it difficult to grasp the steering wheel, signal turns, or put on a safety belt
• limited mobility in the neck and shoulders can make it difficult to turn the head and check blind spots
• pain or stiffness can prevent a person from braking safely

In addition, some of the medications that doctors prescribe to treat RA can make a person drowsy, which can affect their reaction time and reflexes. Fatigue resulting from the disease can also have a similar effect. As a result, a person may have a reduced ability to stop safely and react to traffic situations.

Tips for driving with rheumatoid arthritis

Despite the added challenges, a person living with RA or other forms of arthritis can typically drive safely. The following are some tips for driving safely and comfortably when living with RA.

General changes

In some cases, a person can take extra steps to prepare before getting behind the wheel of their car. They may find it beneficial to make some changes to their routines and how they plan their trips.

People with RA can help improve their safety when driving by:

• adjusting the mirrors as necessary prior to driving
• avoiding manual transmission vehicles
• making adjustments to the seat, armrest, and other areas that affect comfort
• wearing compression socks and supportive shoes when driving
• considering using a donut cushion, lumbar spine support, or heated seat cover for added comfort and control
• considering taking a course geared toward driving with arthritis
• getting regular exercise to minimize stiffness and maintain range of motion
• allowing time for stops and breaks during a long car trip
• taking RA treatments as the doctor prescribed them

If a person wants assistance with understanding their options and training for driving safety, they can consider scheduling an evaluation with a driver rehabilitation specialist. 

Adjustments to the car

In some cases, making modifications to a person’s vehicle could improve their ability to drive safely. A person can consider some of the following modifications to help with their driving:

• using a steering wheel cover that provides extra grip
• installing a spinning knob on the steering wheel to aid in making turns
• adding adaptive foot and hand controls to the car
• installing a support bar to help with getting in and out of the car

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides more information about adaptive tools that people can use for their vehicles.

Other adjustments

A person may also find it helpful to make some of the following adjustments and adaptations to help them maintain their driving independence:

• using a key turning device or installing an automatic start button
• using a key topper to help locate and grasp the keys and turn on the car
• using cruise control when possible
• attaching a seatbelt ID with medical information that would be helpful in the event of an accident
• carrying an unbuckling device to help with taking a seatbelt off
• learning when they should not drive due to safety concerns
• registering for a disabled parking permit

What to do if driving is no longer an option

If RA symptoms get worse or a person no longer feels comfortable driving, they can consider other ways of traveling around. The NHTSA suggests:

• arranging rides with friends or family
• using public transportation
• using a taxi or another driving service
• walking, if possible
• talking with organizations, such as religious groups, charities, and clubs, about the possibility of shuttle services

Summary

A person living with RA does not have to stop driving altogether as long as they feel that they can safely and comfortably operate their vehicle. Various approaches can make driving easier, including the use of assistive devices in the vehicle.

If a person can no longer safely drive, they can look for shuttle services, use public transportation, rely on friends and family, or use taxi or driving services in their area.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/rheumatoid-arthritis-and-driving

Is physical or occupational therapy helpful for rheumatoid arthritis?

From medicalnewstoday.com

Various treatments are available for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and the most suitable options will differ among individuals. In some cases, a doctor may recommend physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), or both as part of a person’s treatment plan. These therapies target specific needs for those living with RA.

RA is a chronic inflammatory disease that typically causes pain and swelling in the joints.

Treatment cannot cure RA. However, it can help alleviate the symptoms and improve quality of life.

A doctor may prescribe or recommend medications for managing pain, reducing inflammation, and slowing disease progression. In addition, they may recommend PT and OT to help improve a person’s quality of life.

This article explores how PT and OT can help with improving RA symptoms. It also provides tips on how to find a therapist.

What is physical therapy?

PT helps improve strength and mobility and increase the range of motion in the joints. In short, it focuses on a person’s ability to move, which can include: 

• getting in and out of chairs
• reaching for items above the head
• playing sports or engaging in activities
• climbing the stairs
• walking around the block

PT involves meeting with a licensed therapist for regular sessions. Most therapists have their doctorate.

During the sessions, the therapist will work on specific exercises that focus on affected joints and movement concerns. They may also demonstrate additional exercises for a person to perform at home.

In addition, they may try other treatment approaches, such as massage therapy and heat-and-cold treatments. Alongside these treatments, they will provide emotional support and encouragement.

What is occupational therapy?

OT focuses less on movement and strength and more on modifications that aim to help a person perform daily tasks. A therapist can suggest tools and strategies to decrease discomfort and improve the motor skills necessary for tasks such as:

• doing the dishes
• cooking
• washing laundry
• completing self-care tasks, including showering and dressing

The therapist will typically tailor the treatment goals and objectives to the person’s unique lifestyle and needs. They will consider the individual’s current abilities, goals, and environment, and they may offer education to family members looking to provide support and promote independence.

They may also recommend other ways to facilitate everyday living, such as:

• replacing doorknobs, light switches, and other fixtures with assistive devices to help improve independence
• using ergonomic products
• rearranging items around the house to provide easier access

How can they help people with rheumatoid arthritis?

Over the years, researchers have shown that PT and OT can help a person living with RA live a more fulfilling, independent life.

In a 2016 reviewTrusted Source, researchers examined 10 years’ worth of studies. Based on the results, they concluded that both OT and PT interventions were effective in reducing pain.

In a 2020 studyTrusted Source, researchers found that exercise was a safe and effective way to increase cognitive function and decrease fatigue for people living with RA. They added that an exercise regimen should form part of the management plan for anyone with this condition. A physical therapist can work with a person to create an exercise plan suited to their needs and abilities.

A 2016 systematic review found strong evidence to support the use of patient education, resistive exercise, joint protection, and other tactics that occupational therapy uses in the treatment of RA.

What to expect during a session

An individual’s experience with a PT or OT program will vary depending on their individual goals and needs. The basic goals of PT and OT services often overlap and may include: 

• increasing strength to support the joints better
• maintaining fitness
• restoring joint use
• improving joint mobility and function
• preserving the ability to do daily tasks

During a session, a therapist will review a person’s treatment plan. The plan should include specific exercises or tasks that a person needs to do, as well as other steps that they can take to work toward their goals.

A therapist may offer instruction for specific exercises, discuss the person’s progress, and suggest additional changes to the home or routine that may improve quality of life.

They will typically space the sessions out so that they work with the person a few times a week over the course of several weeks or months. Between sessions, a person can practice the exercises that the therapist teaches them.

At follow-up appointments, a person will have the opportunity to make the therapist aware of any issues they are facing or any changes in their symptoms. They can also ask any questions about the therapy or their specific program.

How quickly can a person see results?

A person is unlikely to see results from either PT or OT after just one session. The goal is gradual improvement and a reduction in symptoms.

Although the two types of therapy vary in exactly what they do, the goals are similar. In both cases, a therapist wants to see a person be able to live a more active, fulfilling life.

For the best results, a person will need to consistently practice what their therapist teaches them.

How to find a therapist

According to an older study from 2011, not everyone living with RA seeks PT or OT services. The researchers found that people living with more severe symptoms, a broader social network, or disability due to RA were much more likely to seek PT or OT care.

However, PT and OT can be beneficial even for those with less severe symptoms. Establishing a suitable exercise routine and adapting the home can help a person manage their symptoms more effectively and improve their quality of life.

A rheumatologist or another doctor may already have provided contact information for recommended PTs or OTs in their network. If not, a person can ask them for their recommendations or suggestions.

In some cases, a person may need a referral for PT or OT services for their insurance. It is advisable to check with the plan provider what is necessary.

The American Physical Therapy Association offers a PT locator. A person needs to provide some basic information about themselves and their needs, and the search tool will help connect them with local therapists.

Summary 

PT and OT can play an important role in reducing pain, improving strength, and increasing joint mobility. The two services are similar but have distinct differences. PT focuses more on improving movement, whereas OT aims to help a person navigate their daily tasks.

Noticeable results are very unlikely after just one or two sessions. A person needs to spend time consistently working toward their goals and following the recommendations of their therapists to get the best results possible.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/physical-occupational-therapy-rheumatoid-arthritis

 

Does massage help arthritis?

From livescience.com

Arthritis pain can be a daily struggle, but it doesn't have to take over your life. We look at whether massage can help arthritis 

Living with constant join pain may have you wondering – does massage help arthritis? Arthritis can be a frustrating and painful condition. Its main symptoms are chronic joint pain and stiffness, which can make daily movement difficult and uncomfortable.

There are two types of arthritis: osteoarthritis, which results in the breakdown of the cartilage that protects the joints, and rheumatoid arthritis, in which the immune system mistakenly targets the lining of the joints. Both types of arthritis can lead to inflammation and pain in the joints. While massage can't completely resolve this type of joint pain, it can help to ease symptoms of both types of arthritis.

We spoke to Jonathan Wills, Director of Operations and Licensed Massage Therapist at The Woodhouse Day Spa, to find out if massage can help arthritis and what kind of massage is best for arthritic pain.

"Massage can help to relieve pain from arthritis and improve joint mobility," says Wills. “As The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases states, massage can help to decrease arthritis pain and improve flexibility in the muscles, joints and tendons.”

Countless studies have shown that massage can be an effective temporary treatment for people with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It can help to improve pain, reduce stiffness and make completing daily tasks easier.

One 2017 study found that the majority of people with osteoarthritis of the knee had an improved quality of life and greater joint mobility after receiving Swedish massage. A 2018 study also found that bi-weekly massages significantly improved pain, stiffness and function in people with osteoarthritis. 

So, how exactly does massage help with the symptoms of arthritis? The science is unclear.

"We know that massage reduces anxiety quite well and can reduce certain painful conditions rather well, but we don’t know how those things are happening,” says Christopher Moyer, PhD, a psychologist at the University of Wisconsin in Stout. Research also indicates that massage helps the body to relax by reducing stress levels — so, massage may not actually directly help with joint pain.

“The actual mechanism that comes into play is still under investigation," said Rosemary Chunco, a licensed massage therapist. "For example, a more restful sleep that results from a massage may help with arthritis pain.”  

As people with the condition will know, rheumatoid arthritis inflammation, or ‘flare-ups’ can be triggered by a range of factors. Many experts believe that massage not only helps to tackle pain, but also helps to reduce the frequency of flare-ups by reducing stress.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

WHAT TYPE OF MASSAGE IS BEST FOR ARTHRITIS?

"There are several massages that can be beneficial for arthritis depending on the needs and objectives of the person," says Wills. "Hot stone, deep tissue, and even sports massage – which can include trigger point and myofascial release – can be beneficial."

Swedish

When you think of a massage, you probably imagine a Swedish massage. This relaxing massage involves long, slow strokes and kneading motions. Several studies have shown that Swedish massage is particularly beneficial for osteoarthritis patients, with one 2017 study finding that it could help arthritis patients with knee pain to relax and complete daily tasks. 

Myofascial release therapy

Myofascial release therapy is a treatment that involves the application of sustained pressure on target areas of the body in order to release the interconnective fascial tissue that connects the muscles and bones. In a 2011 study, one patient with rheumatoid arthritis was given six myofascial release treatments over the course of six weeks, reporting improvements in pain, fatigue, and quality of life overall.

Reflexology

Reflexology has also been found to be an effective treatment for people with rheumatoid arthritis. One 2018 study found that people with rheumatoid arthritis reported significantly less pain and improved sleep after six weeks of foot reflexology. Another 2010 study also found that reflexology could improve fatigue in people with rheumatoid arthritis. 

Deep tissue

Deep tissue massage is similar to Swedish massage, but typically involves stronger pressure in order to reach deeper muscle tissue. This type of massage can also help people with both types of arthritis. However, most professionals recommend avoiding massages of too great intensity as mid-strength pressure has been shown to be most effective.

Hot stone

In a hot stone massage, a therapist will place hot stones on specific areas of the back to help relax the muscles and ease tension. Hot stone massage is considered a moderate pressure form of massage, so is generally considered to be beneficial for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Sports massage

So far, there is little research into the benefits of sports massage for people with arthritis. However, sports massages are often similar to deep tissue massages — just be careful to let your therapist know that you require moderate pressure if you have rheumatoid arthritis.

DOES MASSAGE HELP ARTHRITIS? THE VERDICT

Many studies suggest that massage therapy can be beneficial for people with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. As always, before beginning a new treatment plan, we always recommend speaking to your doctor about whether massage therapy is the right choice for you.

https://www.livescience.com/does-massage-help-arthritis

10 Things to avoid if you are suffering from Arthritis

From mid-day.com

The leading serious disorder causing disability of joints and is prevalent in modern society is Arthritis. It causes pain and inflammation of joints which results in impairment to perform daily activities. This condition is common among all people irrespective of age.

Ayurveda is an ancient practice that combines nutrients, exercise, and meditation to encourage good health. This natural treatment eases discomfort caused due to disease following root cause and holistic approach. Here, the main goal is to reduce the reversal of the symptoms.

Here are ten things to avoid suggested by Dr. Mukesh Sharda if you are suffering from excruciating pain and discomfort from Arthritis. Unfollow these 10 habits to manage the suffering and overcome the pain.

1. Don’t give up yourself on a sedentary lifestyle: No doubt it is painful to go through this condition and one must feel to just not practice any physical activity. But, it is advised to get up and not give up your body and mind to an inactive lifestyle as it harms your body.

2. Manage weight: Consumption of an unhealthy diet will trigger the symptoms and make you overweight which will eventually increase complications. So, keep a check on your weight. 

3. Do not practice the same workout: While doing any physical activity, one should be aware of the fact that everybody is different and they require a different workout. So, respect your physical limitations and plan the workout accordingly.

4. Do not practice strenuous exercise: While exercise and stretching are essential, high-impact exercises will heighten the pain and symptoms causing further problems. So, before planning an exercise regime one should be careful enough not to overstress the muscles and joints. 

5. Overuse of hands: Arthritis affects the hands terribly and it is important not to overuse the hands as often the overdoing hampers their activity. Typing on the computer all the time, constantly using your thumb while texting, and lifting heavy weight materials will make the condition worse and cause injury.

6. Prolonged standing and remaining in a single posture: Standing for a longer period and placing yourself in a single posture pressurizes already inflamed joints. So, extra care should be taken to insure the joints get an adequate amount of rest.

7. Foods to avoid: There are various food articles that rather than minimizing the uneasiness flares up the situation. So, to relieve oneself from pain, foods rich in high amounts of sugar, fried foods, high purine diet products like red meat, ham, bacon must be avoided. Additionally, excess nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, chili pepper, eggplant, and potatoes must be negligibly consumed.

8. Quit smoking: Smoking increases arthritis pain as it puts stress on connective tissues. So, ditch this coping tool as it harms you in long run.

9. Avoid stress and negative attitude: Stress is undeniably the major cause of almost all diseases. So, focusing only on the negative side will escalate the risk of mental and physical disability.

10. Stop avoiding mobility aids: It is natural, over time arthritis is going to be painful and you will be needing extra care and mobility aids. It is going to be tough and mentally challenging to accept it, but a cane or wheelchair will not define you. It will reduce the risk.

https://www.mid-day.com/brand-media/article/10-things-to-avoid-if-you-are-suffering-from-arthritis-23218022

Arthritis: The sign on the back of your fingers - symptoms

From express.co.uk

OSTEOARTHRITIS is the most common form of arthritis in the UK and causes the joints to become painful and stiff. Some symptoms are unusual, especially as they can develop on the hands

The NHS says osteoarthritis affects nearly nine million people nationwide. It is caused when the protective cartilage around the joints breaks down, causing swelling, pain and problems with joint movement. Furthermore, bony growths can develop and the area around the joint can become red and swollen. The cause of this form of arthritis is unknown.

What is known is a number of factors can increase a person’s risk of developing the condition such as joint injury, older age, a family history of arthritis, and obesity.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint tenderness, increased pain and stiffness when the joint has not been moved for a while, and joints appearing slightly larger than usual.

A grating or cracking sensation or sound in the joints, weakness, and muscle wasting are also symptoms of osteoarthritis. Signs of arthritis can also appear on the hand.

Osteoarthritis of the hand, says the NHS, normally affects “the base of your thumb, the joints closest to your fingertips, [and] the middle joints of your fingers”.

Furthermore, a person may develop cysts that appear on the backs of the fingers while the fingers themselves can become stiff, painful, and swollen. As well as cysts, bumps can develop too. These can be present on finger joints or at the base of the thumb.

                                Arthritis can affect any joint, including those on the hand. 

                                                   (Image: Getty Images)

There are a number of treatments for osteoarthritis including lifestyle measures, medication, and supportive therapies.

Exercise, experts recommend, is one of the key treatments for patients with osteoarthritis as it builds muscle and helps the joints to strengthen.

Furthermore, exercise can help a person to lose weight and therefore take weight off the joints so there’s less pressure exacted upon them.

A GP or doctor may prescribe a tailored exercise regime that will best help treat their patient's arthritis.

Meanwhile, a new study has looked into whether a particular action may increase or decrease the likelihood of someone developing arthritis. There has been debate over whether repeated cracking of the knuckles can cause arthritis. Dr Karl Kruszelnicki says he has the answer. 

In a video published on TikTok, Dr Kruszelnicki says the action won’t cause arthritis.

However, the doctor did say those who repeatedly crack their knuckles loose up to 75 percent of their ability to grip later in life. 
“There’s no strong evidence that cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis, however it could make it difficult to unscrew a jar,” said Dr Kruszelnicki.

So, while cracking one’s knuckles won’t necessarily lead to arthritis, it could make cooking more of a challenge in the long run.

For more information on arthritis contact the NHS or your GP.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1577637/arthritis-symptoms-signs-fingers-cysts

To Your Good Health: Turmeric supplements safe to try for arthritis

From agrinews-pubs.com

By Dr. Keith Roach 

I recently read about turmeric for osteoarthritis. I’m on a limited income. Please tell me more about it, like how much it costs and where I can get it.

Turmeric, a spice that has been used for millennia, is the source of curcumin, which has been shown to improve symptoms of osteoarthritis, at least in short-term studies. It is generally thought to be safe, as most people have no side effects or only occasional stomach upset, nausea or diarrhea.

A theoretical concern is bleeding, in combination with anticoagulants, but this appears to be rare. I have had many patients try curcumin, and it has improved symptoms in about half of those who tried it.

Turmeric is easy to find at any grocery store, but when curcumin is used as a supplement, it is usually combined with other supplements to help with absorption. A common one is piperine, derived from black pepper. It’s difficult to use turmeric from food to get a pharmacologic effect.

The usual dose is 400 to 500 mg two or three times daily. A month’s supply from a reliable online retailer I found cost about $10.

https://www.agrinews-pubs.com/features/2022/03/06/to-your-good-health-turmeric-supplements-safe-to-try-for-arthritis/

Arthritis: Symptom in the face that can be a sign of autoimmune disease

From express.co.uk

ARTHRITIS is very common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. Symptoms can appear in a number of places other than the joints, including on the face

Around 10 million people live with arthritis in the UK. The most common form of the inflammatory joint condition is Osteoarthritis, making up 90 percent of cases. Less common is rheumatoid arthritis. The difference between the two conditions is that osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage joint wears out whereas rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the body.

As with other forms of arthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis mainly affects the joints. However, other symptoms can impact other areas of the body. For example, a patient may experience dry eyes or chest pain if these areas have become infected. Other non-joint related symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include tiredness, lack of energy, a high temperature, sweating, a poor appetite, and weight loss.

As well as reducing quality of life, rheumatoid arthritis can cause a number of complications. It can increase an individual’s risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that causes pressure on nerves in the wrist. Symptoms include aching, numbness, and tingling in the thumb, fingers, or part of the hand.

A symptom of rheumatoid arthritis can appear on the face. (Image: Getty Images)

Widespread inflammation, joint damage, cardiovascular disease, and cervical myelopathy are also potential as a result of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but treatments can be prescribed in order to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

A series of medications, treatments, and therapies can be employed in order to alleviate discomfort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Surgery can be used to help restore the ability of an individual to use their joint while dietary changes may also be employed. For more information on rheumatoid arthritis, contact the NHS or consult with your GP. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joints. (Image: Getty Images)

Elsewhere, experts from the University of Oxford have found a drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis could be used to treat Covid.

Researchers have found the drug baricitinib can reduce the risk of a patient dying from COVID-19.

Professor Sir Martin Landray said in a statement: “What we have now is a suite of drugs which tackle the immune system at different levels, and [in] slightly different ways, which depending on the patient and their circumstances, and their other illnesses and so on, can be used either alone or in combination”.

The results of the study also suggested that baricitinib’s impact was such that patients treated with the drug were less likely to require mechanical ventilation.

While the drug’s impact was found to be small, it was nevertheless beneficial. In the fight to save a live, sometimes the smallest margins can make the biggest difference.

Despite the ongoing burden of Covid, the NHS continues to try and serve all those who require its assistance.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1576228/URL-arthritis-symptoms-symptom-face-dry-eye