Patient/caregiver was educated on measures to reduce the effort and workload for individuals with gouty arthritis as follows:
Certain arrangements and minor modifications can help improve safety, reduce the effort and workload for individuals with gouty arthritis. Use of ergonomically designed tools can help improve independence and reduce the risk for exacerbation of arthritic pain.
- Individuals with gouty arthritis involving the hands and fingers can have difficulty with making a firm grip. The inflammation in the small joints of the hands limits the range of motion of the fingers and prevents the individual to form a firm grip. Weak hold on the handles of assistive devices, such as, cane and walker can contribute to enhanced fall risk. Assistive devices with large handles, padded or foam handles can offer better grip for such individuals. Make sure the height of the device is appropriately adjusted to the user. You can adjust the height of the device such that the handle of the device is level with the wrist of the user.
- Individuals with gouty arthritis of hands must rely more on using mixer/grinder for cutting vegetables. Pain and stiffness in the hands can make use of regular knife unsafe and tiring. Use of ergonomic rocker knife can help promote safety and improve the ease of using knife. You can employ electric knives and can openers to help reduce stress on the hurting hand joints. Purchasing pre-cut fruits, vegetables, and chopped meat can be expensive, but a safer and helpful alternative.
- Poor grips in individuals with gouty arthritis of hands can often make the task of feeding overwhelming. Use of adaptive eating utensils, such as, ergonomic stabilizing spoons & forks, and adaptive utensils with padding grips can promote the grip and make the task easier for the individual.
