Ways of staying active and managing arthritis from home during the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought bigger challenges for arthritis patients. The morbidity and mortality rate are also higher in people with immune-compromised rheumatoid arthritis. They may take longer to recover as well.

Types of Arthritis

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints.

It can be categorized into two types:

1. Osteoarthritis or degenerative arthritis that occurs with growing age
2. Rheumatoid arthritis that can afflict young people too. This type of arthritis puts patients at greater risk for infections, including the COVID-19.

Medications for the management of rheumatologic conditions weaken immunity, making patients more vulnerable to infections.

Walks, exercises, and physiotherapy sessions are a routine prescribed for most arthritis patients.

However, the pandemic has restricted movement which increases pain as well as stiffness in joints.

Exercise at home and increase the duration. If you have a cycle or treadmill at home, use them. Other than jogging and walking, most of the exercises including muscle strengthening, stretching exercises can be done at home.

Pain Management

Many arthritis patients are battling a surge in joint pain due to a change in routine.

For patients with osteoarthritis, the painkillers patients are prescribed are quite safe and their dosage can be increased to a certain limit to relieve pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also be taken to alleviate symptoms.

As a long-term solution, many doctors recommend knee replacement or joint surgeries for severe symptoms where movement and daily activities are significantly reduced.

Battling Anxiety

During the lockdown, doctors are also reporting a rise in anxiety levels and psychosomatic issues among the elderly and patients with bone and joint issues. Since patients are unable to go for regular checkups as OPDs are shut, panic calls to doctors are increasing. Regular exercise and yoga can relieve both anxiety and stress.

Eating Right

Controlling your diet is crucial against consuming high amounts of carbohydrates and sugar. Add more protein and vegetables, salads to your diet and reduce intake of rice and chapattis, especially if you can’t walk or exercise much.

If you face any problem related to arthritis, then consult Dr. A.K. Sharma, the best orthopaedic doctor in Noida. We provide guidance and treatment to our patients.