The Mayo Clinic defines osteoarthritis
as what “occurs when cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of the bones
within the joints, breaks down and wears away. In some cases, all of the cartilage
may wear away, leaving bones that rub up against each other.” It is not only the most common type of
arthritis in seniors but one of the most frequent causes of physical disability
among older adults according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Osteoarthritis commonly affects joints
in the hands, knees, hips and spine, and occurs in both men and women. When it occurs in adults younger than age 45,
it is more often in men. The NIH
estimates that 33.6% (12.4 million) people 65 years and older have the
disease.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
pain in the joints; tenderness when light pressure is applied to the joint; stiffness,
especially first thing in the morning or when moving after periods of inactiveness;
and loss of flexibility and range of motion. You may also notice a grating sensation when
using the joint or hard lumps that form around the affected joint known as bone
spurs.
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis,
there are medications that can help to ease the pain and reduce inflammation. The Mayo Clinic says the two best things you
can do is to maintain a healthy weight and get exercise. Physical therapy is sometimes done as a way
to strengthen muscles and occupational therapy is used to teach patients with
the disease how to perform common tasks without causing as much pain.
SYNERGY HomeCare’s team of
compassionate caregivers is trained to help make living with osteoarthritis easier. We provide Central Texas with a
broad range of non-medical home care services for individuals of all ages and
for any ailment.
**This is for informational
purposes only and is not to be used in place of advice from your health care
provider**
Sources: nihseniorhealth.gov/osteoarthritis/whatisosteoarthritis/01.html
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/basics/definition/con-20014749
SYNERGY HomeCare is one of the most trusted non medical home health care agencies. We provide families with affordable, reliable
and compassionate services that include everything from short term wellness
visits to live-in care. Please contact
us to discuss the range of services we can provide for you or your loved
one. Our offices are conveniently located
throughout Central Texas.
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