Over 10 million people in the UK suffer from arthritis, a painful condition caused by the inflammation of the joints, which can lead to mobility problems and restricted movement. The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and while the condition can develop at any age, it is most often found in the over 50s.
Signs and Symptoms
Osteoarthritis causes the smooth cartilage which lines the joints to wear thin, sometimes leading to the development of small bony growths called osteophytes or causing bone to rub against bone. As the shape of the joint can be altered by this, movement becomes extremely painful and is usually accompanied by a tenderness or increased sensitivity in the joints. The joints most commonly affected include those in the hands, feet, spine and hips, usually causing stiffness of movement and pain or discomfort when the joints are moved.
Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking the joints, leading to swelling and pain. As the protective covering of the joint is broken down, you may see joints swelling or changing shape, and movement will become harder and more painful.
Managing the Condition
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are ways the condition can be managed to help people live as normally and independently as possible. For those with osteoarthritis, painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed, while in the most extreme cases joint replacement or fusion surgery may be recommended.
For those with rheumatoid arthritis, treatments to slow the condition frequently include disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), alongside painkillers and physiotherapy.
There are also a number of specially designed aids to help people suffering from arthritis continue to live independently at home. Grippers for picking things up, adapted writing equipment and large buttoned channel changers and phones can all be useful, while mobility aids such as stairlifts can help sufferers remain as mobile as possible within their own homes.
With a wide range of specially designed stairlift models available to arthritis sufferers, UK Stairlifts can offer advice and guidance on fitting the best stairlift for you. Please get in touch today to see how we can help you remain safe and mobile while coping with this painful condition.
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