Learning how to protect your joints will help prevent further injury, reduce pain, conserve energy and enable you to stay as active as possible. Recognize activities that cause joint pain and find less painful ways to move and perform tasks. Avoid activities that cause you to overextend or "lock" your joints. Frequent over-extension of the joints may cause chronic "traumatic" arthritis. For example, avoid leaning on or pushing off with the palms of your hands. These movements may cause fingers to hyperextend. Also:
Rearrange storage areas and place items at comfortable heights.
Consider placing a ramp over the steps, if stair-climbing puts excessive strain on your knees or hips.
Duplicate items upstairs and downstairs to avoid frequent climbing up and down steps.
Toddlers and young children should wear kneepads to protect them if they fall.
Don't use scatter rugs and avoid using slippery floor polish.
Consider using self-help devices, such as long-handled combs, if stretching puts your joints at risk for injury or dislocation.
Above all else, talk with your physician for specific recommendations.
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