The Joint

The joints, where your bones come together, naturally undergo some wear and tear. Sure, there's gravity, your body weight, free radicals from smoking, damage caused from a fall, car accident or some other injury, and genealogical factors. While doctors can't say for sure what directly causes arthritis pain, they do say that you can remain relatively pain free and maximize your mobility by creating a good protection plan for the joint(s), no matter how inflamed it may be.

Many patients are asking, "How can I prevent the joint deformity associated with arthritis?" It's bad enough that you're suffering the pain on the inside, let alone exhibiting the unsightly bumps and crooked, protruding lumps associated with arthritic hands. One study (Scott J. Zashin, M.D., 1998) indicates that TNF Blockers, such as Enbrel, Remicade and Humira, are most effective at halting the progression of arthritis.

Researchers found that while 25% of patients on Methotrexate achieved clinical remission, 70% of the patients who did not respond to Methotrexate had success with the other three drugs. Of course, the drugs are far from a cure, but rather serve as a pain management tool for those who suffer most.

Additionally, there are ways to protect the joint(s) by making safe everyday movements. First, move each joint as much as you can, pain-free, each day. Don't overdo it, but make slow, gentle rotations if you can. Take the time to note the difference between the normal discomforts of arthritis versus the pain from overuse. Severe pain lasting over an hour after activity indicates that you probably overworked yourself.

Learning how to use your hands to minimize stressful positioning can be helpful, so keep your eye out for medical aids that may help you to do things, like typing on a keyboard or opening a jar. While it's important to exercise daily, you needn't strain yourself by unnecessarily going through complex motions. Doctors say that you should avoid making a tight fist when using tools, avoid pinching mugs or books and be sure you sit with good posture. Try sliding objects rather than lifting. Use a homemade loop to open cabinets, rather than clutching the knob. Keep your joints moving. Balance rest and activity throughout the day to keep the joint and muscle areas stretched.

The joint(s) may need an aid to relieve pain, decrease swelling and improve circulation. IMAK offers "The Arthritis Gloves" to help with everyday activities and other products that may make everyday motions feel more enjoyable. Sometimes canes, object grabbers, jar openers, knee braces and other devices are required for pain management. It is important to find a middle ground between taking the burden off the afflicted joint(s) and exercising enough to maintain mobility.