Strategies to Manage Joint Pain in Older Adults

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs that typically affects the knees, hips, and hands. OA is the most common type of arthritis and its symptoms include loss of flexibility and swelling, as well as joint pain, stiffness, and tenderness. Aside from receiving personal care in Fredericksburg, Virginia, there are other ways seniors can manage joint pain.

As a leading home care provider in Stafford County, we will share strategies to help manage joint pain in older adults:

• Avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
  Regular physical activity strengthens the muscles around the joint to take the pressure off them. Exercise also improves the flow of nutrients to the cartilage to reduce pain.
• Aim for a healthy weight.
  Being overweight or obese puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. Meanwhile, being underweight can also pose problems for the joints due to a lack of proper muscle development. A healthy weight helps put less strain on the joints and promotes overall wellness.
• Take medicines as prescribed.
  A senior’s doctor may recommend certain medications to manage joint pain. They should follow the dosage and instructions for optimal results. A home health aide can provide medication reminders to ensure adherence.
• Maintain a balanced diet.
  Diet and exercise go hand-in-hand for effective weight management. For seniors, this means putting an emphasis on portion control and steering clear of empty calories. Rather, they should add foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to improve joint health.

UPRISING HEALTHCARE SERVICES LLC is a dependable home care provider offering high-quality care and support. From meal preparation to companionship in Spotsylvania County, get in touch with us to schedule a free in-home assessment for your loved one.