When I speak to caregivers, many of them are surprised to learn that the number one health concern for seniors is arthritis. From my experience, this is not a frequent topic of conversation among caregivers, especially when compared to more serious life-changing illnesses that often afflict your recipients such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or cancer. Yet, arthritis can affect your own quality of life and even be debilitating. 

While not a specific disease, the term arthritis refers to about 200 different conditions that affect joints and connective tissue surrounding joints. An easy way to remember the definition of arthritis is to look at its Greek origin: arthromeans joint (the place where two parts of the skeleton fit together) and itis which refers to inflammation. Many types of arthritis exist, but the most common (affecting nearly 30 million Americans) and the one we will focus on is osteoarthritis (OA), often referred to as degenerative joint disease.

This type occurs when the protective cartilage (the tissue that cushions the ends of the bones) breaks down. There are also changes in the joints including deterioration of tendons and ligaments along with various degrees of inflammation in the synovium (joint lining). Any joint can be affected, but the most common ones are located in the knees, hips, hands, spine and great toe. According to a study at the University of North Carolina, the lifetime risk of developing OA of the knee is 46%; it is 25% for OA of the hip. By the way, almost 60% of those affected are women.

The exact cause is not known; factors involved include injuries to joints, genetics, obesity and age. Although growing older is the greatest risk factor and the National Library of Medicine claims that most people age 70 and older show symptoms, OA should not be considered an inevitable consequence of old age. John H. Klippel, MD, and president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation states, “Many people assume that arthritis pain is just part of getting old and they have to put up with it. That’s simply not true.” 

However, he cautions that it is important to work with your doctor to achieve lifestyle changes that can prevent further damage and disability because OA usually worsens over time and no cure exists.

When you got out of bed this morning, did you feel stiff? After climbing a few stairs do your knees ache? Do you experience pain or difficulty when reaching overhead for at item on the top shelf, opening a jar or turning your neck while driving to check your “blind spot”? All of these are clues that your symptoms may be related to OA. 

If these symptoms persist, you should talk to your doctor. Diagnosis is based on a physical exam of your joints; inquiries concerning a family history of OA; reports of any previous injuries to joints; and a review of your current symptoms. The doctor will also consider your weight and activity level. He may order an x-ray of the affected joint.  While there are no conclusive tests to diagnose OA, the doctor may order blood or urine tests to rule out other causes. 

Because caregiving often involves tasks that are physically stressful – such as providing assistance for your loved one to walk, stand or reposition in bed – current arthritis symptoms may worsen if you do not take preventive measures. Emotional stress may also be a factor in increased inflammation, which may intensify pain and stiffness. 

While it is true that no cure exists, there are treatments to slow progression, decrease pain and improve joint function. As a caregiver, you need to take advantage of these, not only for your own sake, but also to facilitate your ability to continue providing excellent care. Next week we will consider the various treatments available to manage the symptoms of OA. The goal is to control pain, minimize damage and maintain quality of life.