Slowing the Progression of Osteoarthritis

Homecare Darby PA

Osteoarthritis, otherwise known as degenerative joint disease, affects the cartilage—the “shock absorber” that separates bones. The degeneration of this tissue ultimately leads to pain and stiffness and, in some cases, the formation of nodules and bone spurs. It is estimated that over half of Americans over the age of 65 may show x-ray evidence of osteoarthritis in at least one joint. The joints most commonly affected are those of the hips, knees, hands, and spine.

The Diagnosis

A diagnosis of this type of arthritis can result in fear and denial. A senior who has already lost some of their ability to perform the daily tasks of living fears the loss of still more independence. They may know someone suffering from this disease and see the result of lost mobility and increasing pain. It’s important for them to maintain hope and a sense of control regarding their future and their health. To this end, letting them know that there are steps they can take to slow down the progression of this disease can help ease these fears and concerns. Managing osteoarthritis instead of letting osteoarthritis manage them can put them in the driver’s seat.

Diet

Osteoarthritis is caused by inflammation which is, in part, responsible for the pain associated with this disease. Certain foods produce inflammation in the body while others decrease this reaction. In addition to the types of foods one consumes, the amount of food is also relevant. If someone is just 10 pounds overweight, they increase the force placed on their knees by 30 to 60 pounds. This type of stress wears down the cartilage faster, producing additional pain and stiffness.

Foods to include in the diet:

1. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are known to decrease inflammation in the body. These include salmon, sardines, grass-fed beef and walnuts.

2. Antioxidant rich foods which include fruits and vegetables. Those that are the brightest in color often have the most of this important nutrient that protects cells from damage and decreases pain and stiffness associated with inflammation. These include blueberries, bright colored peppers, colored chard and cantaloupe. Leafy greens should also be added to the diet in abundance.

Foods to remove from the diet:

Foods high in omega-6 fatty acids which are known to cause inflammation. These include modified cooking oils and packaged, prepared foods.

Exercise

Exercise increases the ability to perform the daily activities of living. It can reduce the pain and stiffness associated with this disease. It’s important to keep strength and flexibility while protecting damaged joints. To this end, exercises to consider are swimming, water aerobics, bicycling, walking, yoga and Tai chi. Work up to 30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week. Following exercise, consider intermittent heat and cold applications in 20 minute increments.

Homecare Provider

If you find it difficult to fit in daily walks, exercise classes and the preparation of an osteoarthritis-oriented diet, consider obtaining the assistance of a homecare provider. These professionals can provide help in all these areas including transportation, grocery shopping and meal preparation, along with assisting with the daily activities of living.

Resources: http://arthritis.emedtv.com/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-statistics.html
http://www.clevelandclinicwellness.com/conditions/Osteoarthritis/Pages/BestDietforOsteoarthritis.aspx

If you or an aging loved one are considering Homecare Services in Darby PA, please contact the caring staff at True Direct Home Health Care today.

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Perry C. Doc Alleva, Owner & Administrator

Owner & Administrator at True Direct Home Health Care

True Direct HHC owner and administrator, Perry C. Doc Alleva has been in the health care community for over 10 years as a therapy solutions provider, as well as a home care services coordinator. He has extensive experience in caring for the disabled and the surgical acute, sub-acute, and rehab population. Rooted in his home-town city of Philadelphia, with strong ties to it's vast neighborhoods and communities, he's now focusing all his energies towards innovating the home health care agency's role in providing the essential care needed from individual to the family throughout the community.

Doc, as he is called by everyone - staff, patients and clients - first experienced home health care and hospice care while as a colleg student at King's College as he cared for his mother every day while she first battled COPD and then lung cancer. It was during this time that he came to understand that caring for a patient was more than just clinical expertise.

"Admittedly, my strongest attribute is my communication skills and the simple fact that I love to help people. Even the smallest thing you can do for someone really can mean so much to them long term. In fact, it could change them forever. That's what providing quality personal home health care should be all about."

In his spare time, he cooks for homeless shelters and children's music and arts events. He also is highly involved in his local youth sports soccer academy as a coach and Board member.

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