Arthritis in Your Hands Got You Down? Alternative Therapies
Posted: Friday, August 13, 2010
by Dr. Carla Goddard
Hand pain is one of the most common symptomatology aspects of arthritis, especially in RA. From the mild weakness to the horrific Herberden nodes that can form on any of the knuckles of the fingers, it is evident that the functionality of the hands are a major concern for anyone who is diagnosed with arthritis.
The consequences of this pain can eventually lead to full loss of the physical functional ability. Logically, when the pain starts, you being to use your hands less and less, which in reality accelerates the final loss of ability.
Traditional medicine agrees. Most physicians will advise patients that regular exercise is a definite part of the therapy. They will also, usually, recommend drug therapy to control the discomfort, reduce inflammation of swelling, and even, at times, suggest dramatic therapy such as injection of corticosteroids or surgery.
There are other ways to try an outsmart the pain before turning to surgery. Determine first what actions that you do on a regular basis that cause the pain. Keep a journal recording this. This will enable you to work with your health care provider in determining what potential aids or exercises that would fit your particular needs to keep the flexibility and functionality as long as possible.
Learning new strategies for the same activities can be a key to maintaining a normal life. A few examples are listed here. If holding a coffee cup in your hand causes pain, try using both hands wrapped around the outside of the mug, rather than using the handle. Distributing the load of use over larger parts of the hand such as the palms will also help. An example is spraying an aerosol can with your palm is a prime idea. Want to wring out the wash cloth, hang it over your facet and press the sides together with the palms of your hand.
Using your journal you can identify your problem and come up with some simple solutions.
Example:
Problem: I can't open jars
Why: Pain and weakness
Solution:
1. Use sheet of rubber to produce friction and to use the whole palm
2. Find a professional jar opener
Problem: Writing hurts
Why: Pain in the position
Solution:
1. Use a felt tip pen as it uses less pressure to write
2. Use a digital recorder to make lists rather than hand writing them
A simple flexibility exercise that you can do is called a Thumb walk. Hold your wrist straight and form the letter 'O' by touching your thumb to each of your fingertips. After each 'O' straighten and spread out your fingers.
Inhaling deeply with relaxation breathing can also eliminate the stress and frustration that comes with the pain of arthritis. Keep a log and talk with your health care provider to find other solutions to your particular problems.
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