In
creating the blog, I hoped to share basic information about arthritis with an
emphasis on osteoarthritis. This included answering the questions (1) What is
osteoarthritis? (2) Who gets arthritis? and (3) How can osteoarthritis be treated? As an occupational therapist, I often see
patients whose activities are very limited due to arthritis. This disease can be
life-changing and the disease process is difficult to explain.
As America
ages, the number of people affected by this disease will grow. Research continues in new treatments and
remedies for osteoarthritis but there is no known cure. In addition to
traditional medicines, many people find relief through alternative therapies such
as acupuncture, yoga and nutritional supplements. Energy conservation and joint
protection techniques are also important means to manage the pain and joint
stiffness that accompanies osteoarthritis. As we have learned through our class
presentations, exercise and proper nutrition are common components of a healthy
lifestyle. Not surprising, they are also valuable weapons in the fight against
arthritis.
I
hope these blog postings have provided some useful information about this most
common form of arthritis.
Thank you for your comments. I have enjoyed this blogging experience.
