Relieving Joint Stress

Joint pain from a lifetime of lifting, bending and normal wear and wear happens to all of us, especially those of us who exercise and stay active.

From the internationally acclaimed Cleveland Clinic, here are some steps you can take beyond medication to relieve stress while going about your daily activities:

Control your weight. Extra pounds put extra stress on your weight-bearing joints, such as the back, ips, knees and feet.
Be aware of body position, using good posture to protect your back and the joints of your legs and feet. Whenever possible, sit down to perform a job instead of standing and change position often.
Conserve energy by allowing for rest periods during the workday and while performing any activity.
Respect pain. Your body is trying to tell you something is wrong.
Don't get involved in an activity that puts strain on already stiff or painful joints.
Use care when getting in and out of a car, chair or tub, as well as for climbing, lifting, carrying, pulling, or pushing objects. Try to always sit in the highest chair in the room, and look for chairs with armrests to make it easier to get up.
Use your strongest joints and muscles to reduce the stress on your smaller joints. For example, carry a purse, handbag, or briefcase by its shoulder strap rather than by its handle.
Distribute pressure to minimize stress on any single joint. Lift dishes with both of your palms rather than with your fingers. Carry heavy loads in your arms instead of with your hands.
Avoid tight gripping, pinching, squeezing and twisting if your hands are affected by arthritis. You can usually find ways to accomplish the same tasks with alternate methods or tools.
Consider assistive devices. Bath stools, grippers, reachers, grab bars were developed to make every-day activities easier and less stressful on your joints and muscles. Your doctor or physical therapist can suggest devices that will be helpful for tasks you may find difficult at home or at work.