A recent Times article documents the impact of chronic joint pain on the lives of many older adults. Though most aging adults face some level of arthritis, Surrey-based specialty doctor in medicine for the elderly Dr Trisha Macnair believes there is no reason why everyone can’t get involved in their own joint care as long as a general doctor oversees the general management and medication of the patient’s condition. With spring coming, it’s a great time to get outside and take advantage of the weather. Though activity should begin with gentle exercise, Dr. Macnair encourages varied activity to improve overall strength. “Strong toned muscles will support weaker joints, too. And vary what you do: different muscle groups benefit from different activities.” Patients also have more control over their condition and symptoms that they would think. Dr Cheryl Rezek, a Buckinghamshire-based clinical psychologist, further argues that “what we think and feel [emotionally] will have an impact on what we feel physically,” says Dr Rezek. Trying different pain management approaches can ultimately help patients overcome the obstacles of living with chronic pain.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/wellbeing/8388789/Learning-to-care-for-the-bends.html