Introduction to Tools for People Coping with Arthritis

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I love the outdoors and puttering about in the yard but it doesn’t take much to slow me down now with stiffness and joint pain. I live with the daily effects of arthritis and I know first-hand the importance of finding the right aids to manage the pain and discomfort.

What are “Tools” for People Coping with Arthritis?

Arthritis tools are devices or aids or gadgets to help people manage arthritis pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

When Might You Need One?

These tools provide help with our daily activities like getting dressed, cooking, grooming and even getting in and out of bed.

If you’ve ever needed help buttoning a shirt or getting a good grip to open a jar lid, you know how much these can provide some much needed help.

I enjoy outdoor hobbies like flower bed gardening and have found more comfortable aids to kneel and sit and grip gardening tools.

Try ergonomic utensils and kitchen tools to reduce strain on the joints while cooking and eating.

There’s adaptive clothing with Velcro or snap closures for easier dressing or a long-handled shoe horn to assist with putting on shoes without bending.

I like using a Reacher/Grabber tool for reaching and grabbing objects without bending or stretching.

Use a shower chair or bench for sitting while showering, a handheld showerhead for easier bathing and a long-handled sponge for washing hard-to-reach areas.

Of course there’s a heating pad or cold pack for pain relief and compression gloves or socks to reduce swelling.

I really love my adjustable bed for more comfortable sleeping positions. Some people really like the electric lift chair to get up easier from a sitting position.

In the office, try an ergonomic keyboard and mouse for comfortable computer use, voice recognition software for typing and controlling computer functions and a hands-free phone or speakerphone for easier phone conversations.

There are so many more… assistive devices for opening doors, grips for pens for easier writing, portable hand exercisers for improving hand and finger strength and flexibility…Oh, I could go on and on.

Benefits of Arthritis Tools

The benefits of arthritis tools are numerous.

They can help reduce pain. Simply feel better. Get a better night’s sleep.

They can improve mobility. Get out and about, go places with ease.

They can increase independence. Do it yourself, without needing to ask for help with the little things.

They can enhance overall quality of life. Enjoy more freedom.

By using the right tool, individuals with arthritis can perform daily tasks more easily and with less discomfort.

Types

There are numerous gadgets but the differences boil down to four things:

Joint protection tools – help reduce the stress on joints during daily activities, such as using a jar opener or a cushioned pen grip.

Pain relief tools – include hot and cold packs, massagers, and topical creams.

Mobility assistance tools – such as walkers and canes, can help with balance and stability.

Adaptive living tools – such as reachers and dressing aids, can assist with daily activities and reduce strain on joints.

How to Choose the Right Tool

Most times you’re likely to buy one of these just when you need it or come across one while shopping and decide to try it out.

If you’re looking for one online ahead of time – then check all the following statements that apply to you and keep those in mind while browsing:

I need something small for my purse.
It should be light enough to hold comfortably.
My hands cramp if I hold something too long so it needs to have an ergonomic grip.
Will this plug in or need batteries or is it rechargeable?
Will it have a noise level or run quietly so I don’t disturb others around me?
I want one that is made to last.
I want the kind you wear and is easy to put on.
One size fits all?

With your wants and needs in mind you’ll find it easier to narrow down your choice and find the best fit.

You may even decide to get several and assign each its own purpose. I have three grabbers that I use – one for outside in my yard, one for inside my home and one in my car.

Once you find the ones you like best, buy them as a very thoughtful, useful gift for your friends, too.