| Research has discovered some novel methods of managing Osteoarthritis pain with the assistance of your spouse or partner.
In this study partly funded by NIAMS, spouses or partners can help provide skills to help in self-management and exercise for patients suffering from Osteoarthritis of the knee. This method was seen to aid in the recovery of:
- physical strength (like leg flexion and muscle fitness)
- pain coping capabilities
- self-efficacy, or a sense of control over one’s individual well-being
The research was initiated by Francis Keefe, Ph.D at Duke University Medical Centre and his other colleagues from the University of North Carolina, the University of Connecticut, and Wofford College.
The study involved 72 couples with one spouse having persistent knee pain due to Osteoarthritis. These couples were randomly divided into four groups:
| 4 Groups |
Treatment Received |
| Spouse-assisted coping skills training only |
12 two-hour sessions with their spouses for pain coping and couples skills |
| Exercise training only |
12 weeks of supervised exercise training |
| Both spouse-assisted coping skills together with exercise training |
12 two-hour sessions with their spouses for pain coping and couples skills, AND 12 weeks of supervised exercise training |
| Regular Osteoarthritis treatment only |
Osteoarthritis medication |
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Results of the Study
After analysis of data gathered from the results of all four groups, it was implied that combining the benefits from both spouse-assisted pain coping skills training and exercise training can achieve better results compared to any of the other approaches taken alone as a method of treatment.
Spouse-assisted training (alone or undertaken with exercise training) – improved self-esteem and increased coping skills abilities.
Exercise training (alone or combined with spouse-assisted coping skills training) - enhanced physical strength, leg flexion and muscle fitness.
The study further stressed on the
The study findings also show the significance of self-care abilities and self-efficacy in coping with a debilitating life-illness like arthritis.
As a result of the study findings, both spouse-assisted coping skills and exercise training continued to be developed and fine-tuned as an added method in the management of Osteoarthritis pain. As a result, certain medical treatments, like administering drugs, were discovered to have limitations.
Exercising Through Arthritis
Various studies have advocated the use of exercise to help arthritis sufferers. These special exercises can lessen stiffness and joint pain, improve flexibility, muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, and stamina. It is also beneficial in losing weight and contributes to enhancing a person’s well-being.
Before beginning an exercise program, arthritis sufferers should consult with a doctor to fine-tune the type and frequency of exercise depending on:
- arthritis type
- joints affected
- rate of inflammation
- joint instability
- existence of joint replacements
- other limitations
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