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Proper body mechanics can lead to less strain on your joints. The following activity modification guidelines may be helpful:

• Practice good posture by standing up straight.
• Avoid stooping while standing.
• Avoid sitting in low chairs to reduce stress on your knees when sitting and standing.
• Avoid impact-loading activities (e.g., running, jumping, etc.).
• Reduce climbing activities (e.g., stairs, hills, etc.).
• Avoid any activity that causes prolonged discomfort.

Being overweight puts weight-bearing joints under extra pressure and stress. Because the joints are eccentric (not in the centerline of your body), the force across the joint is three times greater than a person’s body weight when that person balances on one leg. For example, a 150-pound person places up to 450 pounds of pressure on the joint. The good news is for every single pound lost, subtract three pounds of force off the hip or knee. The bad news is for every one pound gained, add three pounds of force to the hip or knee. Extra pressure on your joints can make arthritic symptoms worse, leading to pain and stiffness.

A well-balanced diet coupled with regular doctor prescribed low-impact exercise can help reduce excess body weight, decrease pressure on the joints and increase joint strength. Many claims have been made concerning diet as a cause of arthritis but none have been proven to date. If you have been diagnosed with gouty arthritis, some dietary restrictions are indicated. Maintaining your ideal body weight will help keep your joints healthy. If you are overweight, ask your doctor to advise you on a weight-loss program to fit your needs.

Simple everyday tasks may be hard to accomplish with arthritis. The following self-help/assistive devices may help minimize pain, discomfort and stress, and assist you in accomplishing tasks. Ask your physician or physical therapist about the following self-help devices.

Support

If you are walking with a limp, consider an assistive device such as a cane, a crutch or a walker. Ask your physician or occupational therapist (OT) about different types of assistive devices and which type is best for you.

Canes

It is important to use canes properly since you can actually stress other joints with an abnormal gait (walking) pattern. Canes should be used in the opposite hand of the affected joint; for example, hold a cane in your right hand if your problem is with your left leg.

Walkers or Crutches

If you are unsteady with a cane or cannot grip it well, you may be able to use either one or two crutches or a walker. This will provide support and balance.

Patient Education information provided by Biomet, Inc. - Advanced Science for Real Living™