Osteoarthritis: Tips for Daily Living

Making a few changes in your daily life can reduce stress on your problem joints. This helps protect the joints from further damage.

Your Surroundings

Pick up objects with both hands.

• Arrange cupboards, closets, desks, and drawers to reduce reaching and bending.

• Arrange furniture to make it safer and easier to get around.

• Secure or remove rugs, power cords, and other items that might make you slip or trip.

Think Ahead

• Combine errands so that you make fewer trips up and down stairs.

• Break up loads of packages so that you carry less weight with each trip.

• If you need help with chores or errands, arrange for it in advance.

• If you need to lift something heavy, ask for help.

• Plan your moves ahead of time to use your good joints.

Use What's Available

Sit on a chair or stool to reduce strain on your hips and knees.

To rest your hands, back, and neck:

• Make sure that knives are sharp.

• Use a "grasper" to reach and grab.

• Use soap-on-a-rope in the shower.

To rest your knees, hips, and lower back:

• Wear shoes that fit well and give your feet good support.

• Choose chairs with firm seats and armrests.

Assistive Devices

• In the kitchen, use two-handled knives and saucepans.

• For gardening, use a rolling bench to sit on or to hold your tools.

• In the bathroom, try using grab bars, a raised toilet seat, or a shower seat.

• A cane, brace, or walker may help you walk more easily. Make sure that it's properly fitted and that you're trained to use it.