Interestingly, moving to a warm climate does not seem to make much difference. According to one study, people who live in warmer places are actually more sensitive to small shifts in temperature than people who live in cold damp climates, and they experience pain as readily as their northern peers do in response to larger temperature shifts.
Mechanical Aids
A wide variety of devices are available to help support and protect joints:
- Splints or braces, worn while the joint is at rest or in use, help align joints and properly distribute weight. They are used most frequently to treat arthritic hands, wrists, knees, ankles, and feet. Many of these devices allow some movement within the affected joint and do not restrict nearby joints. They are usually made from lightweight metal, leather, elastic, foam, and moldable plastic with easy-to-use Velcro straps. Any brace, splint, or other device for joint protection should be custom-fitted by a physical or occupational therapist, or an orthotist. Poorly fitting or improperly used orthoses can cause more harm than good. Some insurance companies cover 80% of the expense.
- Using elastic supports on affected joints many benefit some people. For example, in one study, overweight women with osteoarthritis in the knee were helped by insoles plus elastic straps supporting the ankle joint. It is important to consult with a doctor about how to use elastic supports.
- Wrapping the knee with special therapeutic tape that provides support to specific parts of the joint may be effective. In one trial, patients experienced a 40% reduction in pain within a few days. They wore the tape for 3 weeks, and pain relief continued for 3 more weeks following treatment. The tape should be applied by physical therapists or other trained health professionals. Longer-term studies are needed to determine any continuous benefits.
- Wearing shock-absorbing soles in shoes or orthopedic shoes can help in daily activities and during gentle exercise. Heel wedges in the shoes can sometimes help patients avoid knee replacement surgery.
- A neck brace or corset may relieve back pain.
- A firm mattress also often proves beneficial.
- In extreme cases of back pain, lying in traction might be necessary.
- Canes, crutches, or walkers offer benefits to patients with advanced arthritis.
- Specially designed hip protectors, worn under the clothes, can also protect against hip fractures in elderly patients with impaired mobility who are apt to fall.
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