Doing Chores With Osteoarthritis Symptoms

If you suffer from osteoarthritis symptoms, a degenerative condition in the joints, doing daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or washing dishes can be so painful it stops you in your tracks. But chores still need to be done, so what do you do about the pain?

Depending on where you have pain, some chores may be more difficult than others. One approach is to do the job in a way that saves effort and time. You can often find a variety of labor-saving tools at large stores such as Wal-Mart or the household aisle of your local grocery store. If you have back pain, chores like unloading and loading the dishwasher, picking up the floor, making beds and other tasks can exacerbate your pain. When doing repetitive tasks, try to avoid the “back and forth” motion of bending forward at your waist. Instead opt for an “up and down” motion, using your knees to lower yourself. Leg muscles are a lot stronger than back muscles, and can take more force. Allow yourself time to complete each task slowly, taking breaks in between.

Certain chores put undue pressure on your knees, and kneeling can be very painful. You can hire someone to clean for you or live with a dirty shower, but these options are impractical. One option is to get knee pads, which are available in sports and hardware stores. Be sure to put pressure on your stronger leg to lift yourself up. Take frequent breaks and apply an ice pack or bag of frozen peas for 20 minutes to reduce inflammation. It may help to sit on a stool while doing tasks like bathing the kids, scrubbing the tub or gardening.

If you have pain in your shoulders, tasks like putting on your clothes, fixing your hair, and cooking can prove difficult. Keep items on lower shelves and on countertops for easier accessibility. Be sure to have a step stool in the kitchen to help you reduce your reach. Trade in your heavy vaccum for a lighter model that’s easier to push back and forth. Use a small push broom instead of a flat broom for sweeping.

For the full article, visit Lifescript.com, your resource for women’s health information.

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