1 in 5 adults (46 million) and 1 in 250 children (294,000) are diagnosed every year in the United States with some form of arthritis. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention projects that arthritis will increase to 67 million by 2030. There are more than 100 inflammatory and non-inflammatory processes categorized arthritis and they affect the joints and tissue surrounding them. The most common arthritis conditions are osteoarthritis (OA), degenerative joint disease (DJD), childhood arthritis, fibromyalgia, general arthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematous (SLE or lupus) and scleroderma. These conditions present with joint and muscle pain morning stiffness, swelling, fatigue and weakness.
Occupational therapist provide treatment for individuals living with arthritis to live life to its fullest by maximizing their ability to participate in activities (occupations); as well as aiming to increase or preserve joint mobility in areas such as self-care, home management, work, leisure activities and social participation.
Treatment includes reducing pressure and discomfort in hands when holding or working with objects, reduce pain through use of heat or cold, improve transfer ability by using adaptive devices, provide education on joint protection, pacing, energy conservation techniques, and enhancing quality of life.
There are also prefabricated and custom fitted orthoses that provide support to the thumb and or hand and wrist to increase independence in performing daily tasks or engaging in leisure activities. Featured below are pictured braces and adaptive equipment that help to complete daily activities.
Occupational Therapy is available in our clinic to assist in providing treatment and recommendations for equipment, braces or modifications for those struggling with any arthritic conditions. A physician’s prescription is required for most insurance reimbursements. Call us today to find out more information and get back to living your best life.
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