CreakyJoints discusses practical solutions to make house cleaning less difficult or discouraging for people living with arthritis with experts including HSS physical therapist Alexis DiClemente, PT, DPT, OCS.

DiClemente explained, “Pain and swelling in the joints can limit a person’s range of motion, making certain positions difficult or painful.”

She said, “If someone is already experiencing arthritis pain in their day-to-day life, cleaning with arthritis can be very overwhelming, especially since it may cause the person to feel more pain and fatigue afterward. Persistent pain and fatigue can impact a person’s quality of life, as well as their emotional well-being.”

According to DiClemente, there are many arthritis-friendly gadgets and tools available that can help people with arthritis pain to be more independent and make everyday tasks less challenging.

When moving around, DiClemente recommended using proper body mechanics for lifting and bending: “Bend the knees and hinge at the hips instead of rounding your back, which can put adverse strain through the spine.”

Most importantly, DiClemente advised to do things at your own pace and, “Remember that it is okay to take breaks, reschedule cleaning tasks for a day when pain is less, and ask for help. Be kind to your body and try not to get upset if everything isn’t perfect.”

Read the full article at CreakyJoints.org.