How Arthritis Patients Can Use Proper Body Mechanics To Reduce Pain

Using proper body mechanics can greatly reduce the pain, stress and fatigue associated with arthritis. Therefore, paying attention to how you are lifting and moving your joints is going to be beneficial in preventing many potential problems.

By following some of these easy to apply techniques you will alleviate a great deal of the discomfort associated with arthritis.

Distribute the Load

Distributing the load of whatever you are carrying over stronger joints and a larger surface is going to reduce joint stress and prevent joint pain. You need to eliminate grasping objects tightly; like trying to turn the lid on a tightly sealed jar. These actions could cause stress to your knuckles or cause hand stiffness. Try using the palm of your hand and the strength of your forearm to reduce stress on the fingers.

If you are lifting a heavy object; remember to bend your knees and use the strength of the leg muscles and not your back. Holding the object close to you will make it easier to carry. This will lessen the stress on the joints and enable you to carry it easier.

When rising from a sitting position rest the palms of your hands flat on the arms of the chair and then push up. Use both arms to take down or hang up clothes in a closet.

To reduce strain on your hands use a sponge instead of a dishcloth. You get the water out of a sponge by pressing it with the palm of your hand instead of having to wring it out, thereby reducing pressure on sore fingers.

You can attach straps to handles which are difficult to open rather than using your hands. Simply place your forearm through the strap and pull the door open. Always use a shoulder strap to carry a heavy purse or briefcase rather than clutching it in your hand.

Change Positions

Avoid maintaining the same position for extended periods. If your job requires you to sit at a desk; it's advisable to get up to stretch from time to time to reduce joint stiffness. Changing the position of your legs while sitting also helps to prevent knee stiffness when you return to a standing position. Flex and point your toes while working at your desk.

A book holder that sits on a table or your lap is another way to free your hands. This causes less stiffness than holding the book in your hands.

Balance Work with Rest

You should plan your day and schedule frequent rest periods throughout the day to avoid fatigue. It is sensible to divide your work for the day into heavy and light tasks. If you alternate the light and the heavy duties; and take breaks in between you will prevent your body from getting over tired. Instead of working for two or three hours straight, take a ten or fifteen minute break after working for an hour.

If you have to carry several objects to another area; place them on a cart with wheels. This will lessen the load and avoid extra footsteps.

Reduce Excess Body Weight

Losing excess weight reduces fatigue and stress on the joints. Exercise is always a good way to shed extra pounds but it will need to be performed on a regular and consistent basis. If you are not currently exercising; and you choose to do so; start out slowly and work your exercise program until you reach thirty minutes per day. Try to do this every day or at least three to four times per week.