What aids can you use for osteoarthritis?
There are various aids that can make daily activities easier for osteoarthritis patients. A cane, elbow crutch, walker, rollator, and braces are some examples. Sometimes, customized shoes or orthotic insoles can be helpful as they may improve joint alignment. In this blog, we’ll explain what osteoarthritis is and delve into the available aids!
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a rheumatic condition affecting the joints. These can include any joints in the human body, such as elbow arthritis, knee osteoarthritis, and hip osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis often begins with inflammation in the cartilage, which subsequently leads to cartilage breakdown. This can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling around the joint. In some cases, the body may attempt to compensate for deteriorating cartilage function by forming bone spurs, also known as osteophytes. This too can result in pain and stiffness.
Knee brace for knee osteoarthritis
Knee braces can be used for various knee problems, including osteoarthritis in the knee. With a brace, pain and symptoms due to knee osteoarthritis can be significantly reduced. The brace will provide patients with a sense of stability, allowing them to move more freely. Since movement is beneficial for osteoarthritis, this ultimately leads to reduced symptoms and improved joint flexibility.
Ankle brace for ankle osteoarthritis
An ankle brace may offer relief for ankle osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis in this joint usually develops due to trauma, such as an ankle fracture. An ankle brace also provides stability, which can give osteoarthritis patients the confidence to move more. Additionally, using an ankle brace can help improve stiffness, alleviate other pain symptoms, and enhance physical functioning.
Hand and thumb osteoarthritis
In the hand, joints are often affected by osteoarthritis, characterized by deteriorating cartilage. Hand osteoarthritis is a form of rheumatic condition that can manifest throughout the body. A thumb brace or wrist splint can provide relief.
Wrist splint for wrist osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis in the wrist is a form of rheumatic condition that affects the musculoskeletal system. It can manifest independently or arise due to joint inflammation or weak ligaments. It is characterized by deteriorating cartilage in the wrist joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Abdominal and lumbar supports for lumbar osteoarthritis
In lumbar osteoarthritis, also known as osteoarthritis in the back, there is deterioration of cartilage in the intervertebral discs of the spine. Lumbar osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that worsens gradually, with increasing wear and tear leading to worsening symptoms over time. This condition is also referred to as spondylosis.
