What is it?
Arthritis is a common condition that results in joint pain and inflammation. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions. Severe arthritis can lead to chronic pain, contribute to making daily activities difficult, and make walking and climbing stairs uncomfortable and exhausting. Around 10 million people have arthritis in the UK and the intensity of symptoms can vary day-to-day.
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the 2 most common types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis which tends to affect the fingers, knees, and hips (weight-bearing joints). Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that frequently affects the hands, feet and wrists.
Osteoarthritis arthritis
Osteoarthritis first affects the joint’s smooth cartilage lining. This makes movement more difficult, causing discomfort and tightness. The tendons and ligaments must work harder as the cartilage lining roughens and thins. This can result in swelling and the formation of bone spurs known as osteophytes. Severe cartilage loss can cause the bone to rub against the bone, changing the shape of the joint and forcing the bones out of their normal position.
Rheumatoid arthritis
In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the affected joints, causing discomfort and swelling. The joint’s outer covering (synovium) is the first to be affected. This can then spread throughout the joint, causing swelling and a change in the shape of the joint. This may result in bone and cartilage breakdown. Rheumatoid arthritis patients may also experience problems with other tissues and organs in their bodies.
What are the signs and symptoms?
The symptoms you experience will vary depending on the type of arthritis that you have.
This is why it’s important to have an accurate diagnosis if you have:
- joint pain, tenderness and stiffness
- inflammation in and around the joints
- restricted movement of the joints
- warm red skin over the affected joint
- weakness and muscle wasting
You can find out more information here: Arthritis Foundation | Symptoms Treatments | Prevention Tips | Pain Relief Advice
How Comfort Care At Home can help
The impact of arthritis on one’s life can differ from person to person. At its worst, it can leave your loved one in constant pain and unable to undertake many of the day-to-day activities most of us take for granted.
Our experienced care professionals can support your loved one with all their day-to-day care needs, whether that is preparing a meal, making the bed, brewing a cup of coffee, going out to do the weekly food shop, tidying the house or general personal care.
Maintaining a healthy diet is particularly important with some types of arthritis (osteoarthritis). Our care professionals are aware of the nutritional needs of any clients experiencing this version of the condition and can prepare appropriate meals accordingly.
Likewise, exercise is crucial to managing the condition and our care professionals can help your loved one undertake their prescribed daily routine.
It goes without saying that all our care professionals are warm, empathetic people, who understand the importance of supporting your loved one mentally, as well as physically. That is why you’ll always see them with a big smile and making time for a friendly chat.
If you are looking for at home care for a loved one who has arthritis, get in touch with our friendly care team today on 020 8610 9778 or email us on info@comfortcareathome.co.uk. We’ll answer your questions, direct you towards useful information and help you make the right choice for your loved one. We are here to help.