For so many people Osteoarthritis becomes a way of life and can finish up confining you to a wheelchair if you are unfortunate. OA as osteoarthritis is referred to is a condition that usually comes on over a period of several years developing gradually.
Some people will be fortunate and not notice the subtle changes that happen to them over a long period of time, unfortunately others may experience worsening problems including pain and restricted movement. This can be particularly prevalent in the larger joints such as hips or knees. Once you have been diagnosed with OA it is important that you see your doctor on a regular basis to discuss your condition and what might be the best treatment for you.
At this point in time the real cause of osteoarthritis is not known and nor is a cure available. In essence the cartilage that lines the joints becomes thinner and as a result the bones begin to rub together. This then causes pain and inflammation and a build up of bony outgrowths which can make any joint look knobbly. As well as this the joint capsule becomes thicker and the amount of lubricating fluid produced can increase possibly causing the joint to swell, this can also make the joint become stiff and painful
Which joints are affected? Osteoarthritis can affect most joints but it can have different feelings in different joints. It is most commonly found in the knees hips hands and spine. Pain can for some people be so mild they hardly notice it whilst for others it can be so severe that their mobility and way of life is affected. It is at this stage that you can find that the osteoarthritis can confine you to a wheelchair.
As well as the joints mentioned above you can find that shoulders and elbow joints can suffer the same way. There is little you can do once you start with OA except to try to control it, helping yourself by making sure you are not overweight so that you do not put excessive pressure on your already aching joints. It is sensible to make your life as easy as possible,look at things like recliner chairs or perhaps even better a riser recliner chair which can stand you up or take you down to a sitting position without and pressure on the joints at all.
It seems strange to people that the actual pain from osteoarthritis can actually be worse when you are in bed, but this can be caused because the joints are still and the actual inflammation can build up this then obviously disturbs your sleep which will trouble you through in to the next day. If you find yourself struggling like this then an adjustable bed can be of real benefit to you especially if you have one with memory foam mattress. This type of mattress is pressure relieving and will help with all of your joints whilst the adjustable bed will allow you change position much more easily.
We have much more information for you about ways to improve your situation with Osteoarthritis and will come back to the subject again shortly, meanwhile remember that whilst it might be sensible at times to use a wheelchair you can do lots of things to stop yourself being confined to one.
Browse a fine selection of quality wheelchairs by visiting here: www.mobilityproducts4u.org/wheelchairs
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