In the UK, millions of us are currently living with arthritis and other joint problems. Depending on the type of arthritis you have it can cause issues such as pain, inflammation, joint stiffness and even difficulty moving.
There are multiple factors that can raise your risk for arthritis and joint issues. These include age, injury, illness as well as your genetics.
While some of these risk factors are beyond our control, others can be minimised by making lifestyle changes.
According to one expert the types of furniture you have at home as well as other household items could actually be causing or contributing to joint pain.
Salma Khanam, occupational therapist working with EA Mobility warned of six items around the house to be wary of.
Speaking to Express.co.uk , she said: “Joint pain can significantly impact your daily activities, making even simple tasks challenging.
“While various factors contribute to joint pain, including arthritis and conditions causing reduced mobility, it may be surprising to learn that everyday household items can exacerbate the issue.”
Hard flooring
According to Salma, walking on hard surfaces such as tile or hardwood can increase stress on your joints, particularly on your knees and hips.
To address this she recommended adding anti-fatigue mats in areas where you stand for extended periods, like the kitchen sink.
“Area rugs with padding can also provide a softer surface, reducing the impact on your joints,” she said. “These are more cost-effective solutions and might be preferable, but of course, you can also explore having carpets fitted.”
Inadequate seating
“Chairs and sofas that lack proper support can lead to poor posture, placing additional strain on your joints,” she warned.
Salma advised picking seating that offers good lumbar support with arm rests to encourage a neutral posture and firmer seat cushions to enhance comfort.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms can “inadvertently” become sources of discomfort or even injury, particularly for individuals experiencing joint pain, arthritis, or mobility issues, Salma said.
You should watch out for high bathtubs and low toilet seats, for example.
She said: “Consider making adaptations, whether that be minor adjustments such as the installation of grab bars, a shower seat, and anti-slip mats, and easy lever taps, or more significant changes depending on your needs, such as a level access shower, body dryer, walk in tubs, or a smart toilet.”
Heavy doors
Heavy doors require more force to open and close, which can be challenging and painful for individuals with joint pain and arthritis.
Salma advised: “Installing automatic door openers or adjusting the tension on existing doors can make them easier to operate.
“Lever handles are also easier to use than doorknobs, reducing strain on the hands and wrists.”
Traditional vacuum cleaners
She warned that pushing and pulling a heavy vacuum cleaner can exacerbate joint pain in the back, arms, and shoulders.
Instead, lightweight and cordless vacuum cleaners could reduce the strain on your joints.
“Robotic vacuums are an even better option, as they require minimal physical effort to keep your floors clean,” Salma added.
Manual tools
For those with joint pain in the hands and wrist, manual can openers, scissors, and other kitchen tools can be difficult to use, as well as bathroom products, such as toothpaste tubes and bars of soap.
Salma said: “Smart gadgets and electric kitchen tools can help significantly.
“For example, investing in electric can openers and food processors, as well as pump-action dispensers for shower gel, shampoo, and toothpaste, as they require less grip strength.”