Arthritis

Arthritis Pain: Understanding and Managing It with Occupational Therapy

Arthritis is a term that encompasses more than 100 types of joint pain and diseases, and it affects millions of people around the world. The condition is most commonly characterised by inflammation, stiffness, and joint pain, but the specific symptoms and severity can vary widely depending on the type of arthritis. Two of the most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but conditions like gout, lupus, and psoriatic arthritis also fall under the arthritis umbrella. These conditions are chronic, meaning they can last for years or even a lifetime, which makes finding long-term, effective management strategies critical for those who suffer from them.

For many people, arthritis can severely impact their quality of life, particularly when it limits their ability to perform everyday activities like walking, cooking, dressing, and even writing or using a computer. The pain and stiffness can become overwhelming, and without proper intervention, individuals may struggle to maintain their independence. That’s where occupational therapy comes in. While medication and surgery may be part of an arthritis management plan, occupational therapists (OTs) play a pivotal role in helping patients navigate the challenges of arthritis and maintain functionality in their daily lives.

Understanding Arthritis Pain

Before diving into how occupational therapy can help, it’s important to understand the different types of arthritis pain:

1. Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form of arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones thins and becomes uneven over time. This leads to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. It typically affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, swelling, and eventual joint damage. The pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis can be widespread, affecting joints on both sides of the body, and can cause extreme fatigue as well.
3. Other Forms of Arthritis: Conditions like gout, lupus, and psoriatic arthritis cause different types of joint pain and damage. For instance, gout results from the buildup of uric acid crystals in a joint, leading to intense pain and swelling, often in the big toe. Psoriatic arthritis is associated with psoriasis (dry, scaly skin patches) and can lead to joint pain and stiffness, especially in the fingers and toes.

Regardless of the type of arthritis, the pain and inflammation can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. The chronic nature of the disease often leads to anxiety, depression, and a decreased sense of well-being, making it important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of living with arthritis.

How Occupational Therapists Can Help

Occupational therapists specialise in helping individuals perform daily tasks and maintain their independence, even in the face of physical challenges. OTs teach patients how to manage pain, protect their joints, and adapt their environment or activities to maintain functionality. Here are some ways an occupational therapist can make a significant difference in the lives of those with arthritis:

Joint Protection Techniques

One of the primary ways OTs help arthritis patients is by teaching joint protection strategies. These techniques aim to minimise joint stress to prevent further damage and reduce pain. For example:

• Use of Larger Joints: Instead of using the smaller joints of the hands and fingers, an OT may recommend using larger joints to do heavier tasks. This reduces strain on smaller, more vulnerable joints.
• Avoiding Repetitive Movements: Repeating the same movement can cause structural changes to joints over time. OTs can suggest alternative ways of doing tasks that minimise repetition or teach patients how to take frequent breaks.
• Distributing Weight: When lifting or carrying objects, an OT might teach the individual to distribute the weight evenly across multiple joints to reduce the strain on any one particular joint.

Adaptive Equipment

Occupational therapists assess an individual’s specific needs and recommend tools that can make daily tasks easier and less painful. Assistive devices can help people with arthritis or those experiencing a flare-up of pain, for example:

• Ergonomic Tools: These can include kitchen utensils with larger, padded handles, button hooks for clothing, or long-handled sponges for bathing. These tools reduce the strain on small joints and make daily tasks less physically demanding.
• Splints and Braces: In some cases, OTs may recommend splints or braces that can support weakened joints and reduce the risk of further injury.
• Grab Bars and Raised Toilet Seats: Modifications to the home environment, such as installing grab bars in the shower or using a raised toilet seat, can make daily tasks easier and safer for individuals with arthritis.

Energy Conservation Techniques

Many people with arthritis struggle with fatigue, especially those with rheumatoid arthritis. Occupational therapists teach energy conservation techniques to help individuals manage their energy levels throughout the day. Some strategies include:

• Planning and Prioritising: OTs can help patients learn how to organise their day in a way that spreads out demanding tasks, giving them time to rest in between activities.
• Using Assistive Devices: By using tools and equipment to make tasks easier, individuals with arthritis can conserve energy for more important activities.
• Pacing: OTs help patients understand the importance of pacing themselves, breaking tasks into smaller steps and taking frequent breaks to avoid overexertion.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Contrary to what some might think, staying physically active is important for individuals with arthritis. Regular exercise can help maintain joint flexibility, strengthen muscles around the joints, and improve overall stamina. Occupational therapists can work with patients to develop an exercise plan based on their specific limitations, pain levels, and goals. Some recommended exercises include:

• Range of Motion Exercises: These help maintain or improve joint flexibility and can be tailored to each patient’s needs.
• Strengthening Exercises: By building strength in the muscles surrounding the joints, individuals with arthritis can reduce the strain on the joints themselves.
• Aerobic Activities: Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or cycling can improve overall cardiovascular health without placing too much stress on the joints.

Education and Emotional Support

Living with chronic pain can take a toll on an individual’s mental health. Occupational therapists not only help with the physical aspects of managing arthritis, but they also provide valuable emotional support. They educate patients about their condition, help them set realistic goals, and provide encouragement as they work towards those goals.

OTs often work closely with other healthcare providers, such as doctors, physical therapists, and mental health professionals, to ensure a comprehensive approach to arthritis care.