Other than medication and nutritional supplements, a successful treatment programme should involve a combination of therapies, exercise, weight control and other measures. A good program can help you to :

  • Reduce joint pain and loss of function
  • Improve joint care through exercise and rest
  • Maintain an acceptable body weight
  • Achieve a healthy lifestyle

Physical and Occupational Therapy

Sometimes, osteoarthritis can affect your ability to do daily activities such as bathing, walking and dressing.

Physical therapy works on strengthening the muscles and improving flexibility and joint mobility. Heat treatment, splints or supports and massages can reduce pain, stiffness and occasional swelling associated with osteoarthritis. Cold treatments may also be applied.

Occupational therapy focuses on hel ping you manage daily activities. This includes ways to perform tasks without putting damaging stress on your joints, or use splints and bracelets to stabilise joints and reduce pain.

Exercise

Joints and muscles need to be exercised to prevent stiffness and weakness, while also improving joint mobility. Research shows that exercise (if performed correctly) is one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis. It can enhance your mood and outlook, reduce pain, increase flexibility, improve blood flow, maintain a healthy weight, and promote general physical fitness. Most importantly, it can reduce stress due to the body weight on the knee joint area.

Exercises should include muscle strengthening and low impact aerobic exercises such as walking, swimming and dancing. Stretching exercises can help to prevent stiffness and injury.

You should try to maintain ordinary activities and continue doing your normal activities such as a hobby or job. However, you may need to adjust your physical activities to avoid bending, and balance with rest to prevent overexertion. Those with osteoarthritis should check with their healthcare professional or physical therapist before starting an exercise programme.

Exercise does not have to be boring. You can find a friend to exercise with you or check with your local health club for classes designed for people with osteoarthritis.

Diet

A balanced diet provides the various nutrients your body requires. The diet should be rich in fish oils; good sources include salmon, tuna, mackerel and mullet. It is recommended that you include vitamin C-rich food in your diet. Vitamin C may reduce the risk of cartilage loss and disease progression in people with osteoarthritis. Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol intake.

Weight Control

Weight control is particularly important for people with osteoarthritis. Your diet should optimise your body weight so that it does not add extra strain on weight-bearing joints, such as hips and knees. Extra weight may cause joints to wear more quickly, alter the joint structure and increase risk of osteoarthritis.

If you are overweight, work with your healthcare professional to devise a weight loss program that includes eating fewer calories and increasing physical exercise.

Others

Many have benefited from self-management and patient education programs to successfully manage osteoarthritis. People have a more rewarding lifestyle when they educate themselves on the disease and take part in their own care. It allows them to cope physically, emotionally and mentally, which helps build confidence to live an active, independent life.

Joining a local support group can reduce pain and depression and encourage better joint activity. Such groups also allow you to s hare your feelings and experiences with others who know what it means to live with osteoarthritis.

Making the best out of osteoarthritis requires careful attention to your body, mind and spirit. Planning and develo ping daily routines maximises the quality of life. This attitude – a good healthy mindset do not just happen. They require your effort and determination.