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Senior Caregivers

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Senior Caregivers and Joint Problems Many seniors suffer from sore and aching joints. What exactly causes these problems to occur? While there is no one simple answer, let's take a look at a few of the most common reasons for joint problems. As we age, the padding between the bones, cartilage, wears and erodes. This is often accompanied by a drying up of the protective membranes and fluid that lubricates the joints. Without the cartilage and the synovial membranes and fluid, the bones are allowed to touch and painfully grind together. This deterioration of the joints often causes stiffness, deformity, swelling, and pain. The most common joint problem for seniors is osteoarthritis. In fact, Mayo Clinic notes that it is one of the most common ailments in the United States. Nearly half of all seniors over…show more content…
Ice reduces swelling and inflammation. Best of all, ice can be applied many times throughout the day, every day without side effects. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's). These medications are designed to reduce swelling and inflammation There are both over the counter and prescription versions of these medicines. Since the long-term use of NSAIDS may have other health complications, be sure to check with your doctor before using them. Exercise. While it may seem that putting extra stress on the joints is only going to make things worse, exercise helps get the joints moving and keeps them from getting stiff. Exercise also strengthens the muscles around the joints which adds support. Lose weight. Every pound that your joints have to support increases the stress on them. When you lose even a small amount of weight, your joint pain may decrease dramatically. There are many reasons for joint pain, and the number of instances of joint pain increases with age. Thankfully, there are a number of remedies that you can use to fight back and maintain your mobility and
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