So many people suffer from ARTHRITIS..what do you need to know?

Currently, 46 million people suffer from arthritis. This disease costs the US economy approximately $128 billion per year. Arthritis occurs more often as people age. Osteoarthritis is most prevalent in people age 60 and older. So what is Arthritis ? Simply put arthritis is inflammation of a joint or joints. Arthritis slowly destroys the cushioning cartilage around a joint. The cartilage begins to breakdown, causing the bones in the joint to come into contact with one another. This is what cause inflammation,pain and the bones to rub against one another.
There are several types of arthritis. Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are among the most talked about. Osteoarthritis is the most common form. Ninety percent of people over 40 have signs of osteoarthritis. Symptoms include persistent joint pain,inflammation,joint pain aggravated by activity,joint stiffness in the morning,fatigue,poor posture and loss of flexibility in a joint. Common risk factors include:wear and tear,age,heredity,obesity,injury and lack of physical activity. Normally an x-ray may be used to diagnosis and treat common types of arthritis.
There is no cure for arthritis but it can be managed. Weight control and exercise is one of the best things someone can do. Stretching increases flexibility which helps to support the joints. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise. Pain relievers help to ease pain but do not help with swelling and inflammation. thermal therapy relax muscles and help relieve deep pain. There are certain braces and splints that can provide heat directly to the joint. Therall is a popular arthritis line. They have heat pads,relief creams,warmers and patches. For more info visit www.arthritis.org or www.arthritis.com

Medical Equipment and Senior Adults

Falls and Prevention

Falls are NOT a common aging problem. Did you know the CDC states,"Every 18 seconds an older adults is treated for a fall". Also, every 35 seconds someone dies as a result from injuries relating to a fall. One out of three adults fall each year. One third of individuals suffer from moderate to severe injuries like hip fractures or head traumas. Most fractures are caused by a fall. Feel free to go to CDC.gov for more info.

As a caregiver there are several tips to aid in the prevention of falls. The common issues to address include arranging the furniture to create a clear walking path,removing any non-slip floor items or clutter and make sure lighting is sufficent in all rooms and there are night lights in hallways. Other key issues include maintaining regular exercise that helps to increase lower body strength and balance, a yearly eye examination to ensure proper vision and lastly reviewing all medications to ensure correct dosage and side effects. Most home care providers will do a free evaluation and fall risk assessment as part of their home visit.

OxygenPlus Medical Equipment & Supplies in Michigan and Kentucky is a complete home medical equipment company specializing in mobility and safety equipment. We have several different types of assistive devices that can aid in fall prevention. For example, we carry grab bars that can be installed, canes, walkers and toilet safety rails. It is best to think ahead and not wait until a fall takes place. Feel free to visit http://www.oxygenplusmichigan.com/ for more info.