Osteoarthritis: Tips for Daily Living
Making a few changes in your daily life can reduce stress on your problem joints. This helps protect the joints from further damage.
Your Surroundings
Pick up objects with both hands.
Arrange cupboards, closets, desks, and drawers to reduce reaching and bending.
Arrange furniture to make it safer and easier to get around.
Secure or remove rugs, power cords, and other items that might make you slip or trip.
Think Ahead
Combine errands so that you make fewer trips up and down stairs.
Break up loads of packages so that you carry less weight with each trip.
If you need help with chores or errands, arrange for it in advance.
If you need to lift something heavy, ask for help.
Plan your moves ahead of time to use your good joints.
Use What’s Available
Sit on a chair or stool to reduce strain on your hips and knees.
To rest your hands, back, and neck:
Make sure that knives are sharp.
Use a “grasper” to reach and grab.
Use soap-on-a-rope in the shower.
To rest your knees, hips, and lower back:
Assistive Devices
In the kitchen, use two-handled knives and saucepans.
For gardening, use a rolling bench to sit on or to hold your tools.
In the bathroom, try using grab bars, a raised toilet seat, or a shower seat.
A cane, brace, or walker may help you walk more easily. Make sure that it’s properly fitted and that you’re trained to use it.