Arthritis Management
Stay active. Pain-free movement is possible.
Exercise — counterintuitive but #1
- Movement REDUCES arthritis pain.
- Inactivity worsens stiffness.
- Walking 30 min/day = proven help.
- Water aerobics — joint-friendly.
- Tai Chi — proven 25%+ pain reduction.
- Strength training preserves muscle around joints.
- YMCA Silver Sneakers (free with most Medicare Advantage).
Medications
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) — first try. Liver-safe under 3g/day.
- NSAIDs (Advil, Aleve) — work better but stomach + kidney risk.
- Topical NSAIDs (Voltaren gel) — fewer side effects.
- Capsaicin cream — natural pain relief.
- Cortisone injections — every 3-4 months.
- Hyaluronic acid — knee injections.
- DMARDs — for rheumatoid arthritis.
Senior-friendly gadgets
- Jar opener — see /tools/grip-strength-tools.
- OXO ergonomic kitchen tools — easier grip.
- Long-handled brush + sponges — less bending.
- Sock aid — put on socks without bending.
- Reacher tool — pickup without stooping.
- Velcro shoes — no laces.
- Built-up handle utensils — easier to grip.
- Heating pad / paraffin wax — hand pain relief.
Diet
- Anti-inflammatory eating (see /tools/anti-inflammatory-eating).
- Lose 5-10 lbs = 4x less pressure on knees.
- Turmeric — some studies show benefit.
- Omega-3 (fish oil 1-2g/day).
- Glucosamine + chondroitin — mixed evidence.
- Limit processed foods + sugar.
When surgery makes sense
- Knee/hip replacement — 95%+ success.
- Most successful surgeries in modern medicine.
- Try conservative options first.
- Ortho consult when daily pain limits you.
- Walking, sleeping, dressing affected.
- Recovery 6-12 weeks. Enables 15-20+ more active years.
Free help
Arthritis.org (Arthritis Foundation) — free magazine, exercise videos, support groups. CDC Walk With Ease — free 6-week program. Most YMCAs offer free Tai Chi for arthritis. Talk to physical therapist — Medicare covers with referral.