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Treatments > Self-Treatments > Self-Help Arthritis Devices
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Self-Help Arthritis Devices

If you have arthritis, self-help devices can make tasks easier on your joints and more efficient for you. These products, which range from simple to elaborate, help keep joints in the best position for functioning, provide leverage when needed, and extend your range of motion. Simple arthritis self-help devices, such as jar openers, reachers and easy-grip utensils can be purchased at many hardware or medical supply stores.

•    In the bedroom. When dressing, zipper pulls and buttoning aids can help you fasten clothing. Or you can choose to wear clothing with Velcro fasteners, if available. A long-handled shoehorn extends your reach without bending.

•    In the kitchen. In the kitchen, appliances such as electric can openers, food processors and mandolins (for slicing) make work easier. Reachers (long-handled tools with a gripping mechanism) can be used to retrieve items stored high or low. Built-up handles and grips make utensils easier to grasp and put less stress on finger joints. Install a fixed jar opener, or keep a rubber jar opener in the kitchen.

•    In the bathroom. Tub bars and handrails provide additional stability and security when you are getting into and out of the bath or shower. These are a must if you have problems with balance. Faucet levers or tap turners are available if your grip is weak. A raised toilet seat can make it easier to sit down and get up from the toilet.

•    In the office. In the work environment, many devices and modifications are available, from chairs and work surfaces with adjustable-height to telephones with large push buttons and hands-free headsets. If you are facing work modifications, you may want to see an occupational therapist about arthritis self-help tools. He or she can help you make changes and obtain the devices you need.

•    At play. Leisure activities can still be enjoyable through the use of assistive arthritis devices, such as kneelers and light-weight hoses for gardening, “no-hands” frames for quilting or embroidery, and card holders and shufflers for card games.

•    In the car. When driving, a wide key holder can make it much easier to turn on the ignition. A gas cap opener can help when filling the tank at the gas station. 

 

 

Karen
19 Jan 2012, 11:22
I see you mention a gas cap opener. This is something I have a terrible time with. Where would you buy one of these?
leida
11 Jan 2012, 19:52
i'm 62 and have oa in my knees and both shoulders. i'm finding it harder and harder to close my car door once i'm in. does anyone have any suggestions
Boris
31 Dec 2011, 07:46
I like pie.
Rebecca
07 Nov 2011, 06:26
Hi Joan,

I too have arthritis in my spine and have had similar thoughts about what will happen to me as I am only 33 and cannot tolerate any of the pain killers offered to me (believe me I have tried about 10 different drugs). I have tried Hypnotherapy recently and that helped a lot to manage my pain as does a TENS machine. I am due to go to Pain Management soon as my GP also thinks this will help me manage the psychological side of this... I think it is worth a try as my symptoms increase with stress. I am also having acupuncture which relaxes my muscles and seems to get right to the source of it! I hope you get some help!
Carol G
14 Aug 2011, 16:00
I have pain in my right foot after a fall in 1989 that shattered several small bones in the top of the foot. My doctor recommends that I take 800 mgs of Advil every six hours as needed for the pain. She said to come back and discuss surgery (fusing the foot bones) when the pain gets insufferable. I do not want to have the surgery. Is the Advil OK to take for long periods of time?
PaulaH
13 May 2011, 15:53
Large online retailers selling health and personal care devices sell everything you need from the sock aid to various devices to help you get out of the car. I bought neumerous items for my Dad. You can browse the items and find things you never even knew they made. Much easier to shop online. Use a consolidated source, one that sells items from lots of manufacturers, so you can get the best prices.
Linda
26 Apr 2011, 22:00
To Marty Mar 02
My grandmother suffered terribly from arthritis in her hands and also loved to crochet. She and my mother devised a very clever method to help her.....they stuck the crochet hooks through wiffle balls (!) and secured them somehow and she was able to keep crocheting while holding on to the balls instead of trying to hold on to a little crochet hook. I have a gorgeous afghan to prove it!
hans
04 Apr 2011, 01:36
What is the best medication for artheritis? I have OA in my right hand fingers, which I have to actively use for working as a care provider. Thank you.
Marcia
20 Feb 2011, 12:42
An excellent cushion for the car to absorb vibration can be found at Oregon Aero. I have many neighbors who swear by their products. Their business began with seats for aircraft but have branched out into portable cushions and making products for other purposes. They are very helpful and will answer your questions.
Deb
16 Feb 2011, 17:35
Hi,
I am looking for a portable seat cushion for a car that acts like it is on springs. I have OA in my neck that the bouncing or vibration of a car puts me in extensive pain in less than 5 miles. I have already checked out my car and it is ok. I need something to take the bounce out of the car.

Thanks for any replies.
Marian
18 Jan 2011, 15:57
Where can I buy the self-help arthritis device that is a gas cap opened that can help when filling the tank at the gas station
Dee
21 Nov 2010, 20:15
Our son has had RA since he was 2 1/2 years old. He is now 36 . He has severe RA with multiple joint replacements(hips,knees and shoulder). He needs a sock puller upper.Does anyone know where he might purchase one? The last one he had lasted 15 years. Thanks.
Christine
16 Nov 2010, 11:22
I recently had new doors put on my home, and the best thing I did was chose lever style handles. So very much easier on my hands and wrists. I also use these triangular adapters on lamp knobs to make them easier to grip. With time, we all figure out what works best for us... And we need to share that info!
Joanne
10 Nov 2010, 22:01
To relieve pain in the back and shoulders, get an ergonomic keyboard. I found a standard keyboard forced me to keep my arms pulled against my sides. This keyboard opens up my elbows, thus relaxing the muscles at the top of the back. Not costly at all, esp for a pain free time typing. Just takes a while to get used to the odd key spacing but I really love it.
Doris
18 Oct 2010, 23:45
My sister-in-law has RA and has a difficult time starter her car. Where can she obtain a lever that is specially made for a car key ie;lever that has a bigger grip.

Thank you,
Doris
anne drago
17 Aug 2010, 09:16
Because I have arthritis and am morbidly obese, moving while in bed was very painful. I discovered that by using satin sheets on the bed and wearing a satiny nihtgown, it reduced the friction of regular nightclothes and sheets. I just had to use regular pillowcases because a satin pillowcase slipped right out from under my head. I sure it looked quite humorous although it was not the most comfortable thing to have happen. That satin pillow shot out from under my head like a rocket!
AlethiaS
12 Aug 2010, 18:04
I see that a lot of AR patients are looking for assistive devices. There is a website at www.ArthritisSupplies.com. This site has a wealth of devices which can be used with ease. I suffer from a rare autoimmune disease Dermatomyositis which attacks all muscles, joints and systems in the body. These assistive devices have been a blessing to me. Hope this helps someone.
Howard
02 Jul 2010, 16:16
Jason June 10/10
I think you're talking about lace-amatic which you can google.
Jennifer
10 Jun 2010, 22:23
A really good place to look for assistive equipment is maxi-aid. I have found a few things there useful. Not only do they have things there for the blind but for other disabilities as well
Jason
10 Jun 2010, 11:07
My mom saw a device that deals with running shoe laces with a wave of one finger on a TV show but she doesn't remember where. She thinks its begins with the word lace. Anybody know where I can find it.
rick sanderson
19 May 2010, 23:32
a great pain releiver for arthritis is "tramacet" prescription only. its addictive so only take max 3 per day. it takes awhile to get used to it, dizzy etc. might not want to drive a car for a couple days. this gives you a lot more mobility . good luck
Esther
20 Mar 2010, 11:19
I was just dx with sacroiliac arthritis. Not sure if this is inflammatory. Don't think so. Am in PT and will have injection in joint. Is this a good idea?
Linda
11 Mar 2010, 07:29
can some one tell me how to help with the pain i just found out i have Tendonitits and Arthritis in my left arm pain goes in my shouldetrs neck back omg it drives me crazy...can anyone help..ty
Kathy
04 Mar 2010, 07:36
Although so many adaptive devices are a bit price medical supplies don't always have them. I have found some through a SPECIAL catalog at Sears for Medical and adaptive equipment.

Some common inexpensive ones are
1. ask the pharmacist for NON child proof tops
2. just put a plastic grocery sack on the seat of your car to allow you to turn to put your feet out of car then stand up to get out and in.

It would sure be great if manufacturers used levers for doors etc instead of knobs as the numbers of us in population increase that are older and face these problems and challenges.
Katheryn Simmons
03 Mar 2010, 09:39
i have pain in my neck and shoulders when typing
Sue C
02 Mar 2010, 15:03
For Joan from August of 2009: if you haven't found anyone who can help you improve your ability to walk, try a neurosurgeon who specializes in spinal surgeries. If your family dr. won't help you find one, ask some friends. Your problem may not be arthritis but a problem with your spine. He/she might be able to work out a physical therapy program for you to improve your ability to walk. While surgery may be an option it isn't always the only one. I have had 5 spinal surgeries which have all helped. Recovery from the last has taken a long time but improving. Good luck, don't give up the search for help.
Deb
02 Mar 2010, 14:22
Mabelanne, I don't know whether it would work on yogurt cup pull-tabs, but on can pull-tabs I use an old fashioned can-and-bottle opener (we used to call them church keys). It has a pointed end with a little tab in it - we used to use them to pierce the top of a juice can to pour from it, but it slips under a pull-tab very easily and you can pull it up and remove the top.

Sherry, I have the same problem with the door handle of my PT Cruiser. It has a big button that has to be pushed in, and my arthritic thumbs do a lousy job. That aside, the PT Cruiser is a wonderful car because it's so easy to get in and out of - except for the outside door handle! I wish they were still going to make them.
DeniseT
02 Mar 2010, 10:15
Wendy: I use an eraser. They come in all sizes or you can use a pencil eraser
Marty
02 Mar 2010, 09:52
I love to crochet, but the arthritis in my hands is making it difficult. Years ago someone showed me a soft tubular item which just slipped over the hook, making it much more comfortable to grasp. Does anyone know what it was and how I can get it.
Regina Springer
02 Mar 2010, 09:16
I find that surgical clamps are great for grasping and pulling open bags, pulling shoes on , pulling up socks. If you know someone who has a used one,puller trh try it. They lock and you can pull with them.
skip
20 Feb 2010, 13:12
I am looking for the "Reflex" knives. I have found only one place on-line and they are chargin $31.00 each knife.

http://www.wrightstuff.biz/carvingknife1.html


Does any one know of aome places where they are less expensive?

Thanks for your help.

mabelanne
11 Feb 2010, 19:46
I have weak grip strength with thumbs and need help opening such things as yogurt cups with pull tabs.
The Editors
11 Feb 2010, 11:45
Hello Shelly and Fellow Arthritis Today Readers,
Thank you for your comments and inquiries. To answer your question Shelly, you can find many online vendors who sell adaptive devices simply by conducting an online word search using the words "adaptive devices," "assistive devices," or "accessible devices."

ArthritisTody.org is a consumer health-care site, published by the non-profit Arthritis Foundation, therefore we do not sell products on this site. However, we do often write about assitive devices online and in the print version, Arthritis Today magazine.

All the best,
The Editors
Arthritis Today

Shelly
11 Feb 2010, 11:18
Where do people buy adaptive devices? I was surprised that there aren't any in the store on this site.
The Editors
20 Nov 2009, 10:28
Hell Nikki,
Thanks for posting your comment. There are a few options to ease the task of turning over a car's ignition. One is pretty high-tech, which naturally is the more expensive option. It involves the installation of a remote starter, similar to the keyless remote that allows you to unlock and lock your car. The keyless remote starter works in the same manner - it starts the vehicle with the push of a button, even from inside your home. Google "car remote starter" and your bound to find a slew of options.

The other tried and true option is an adaptive device - very low-tech, but effective - called a key lever that attaches to your car key and provides added leverage to ease the twist required to turn over the car's ignition. Again, Google "key lever" and you'll find a few options.

All the best,
The Editors
Arthritis Today magazine
Nikki
19 Nov 2009, 18:22
I'm looking for a tried and true device for my grandmother (who has RA) to help her turn her car key while it is in the ignition. She has a key that has the keyless remote buit into it. I would really love any ideas and suggestions, as she is very down about the possibility of not being able to drive because she can't turn the key.
CJ
17 Nov 2009, 14:42
Where can you get a gas cap opener?
Elaine
28 Oct 2009, 18:11
I recently had bilateral knee replacements but still manage to ride my horse. However, due to inflammatory OA of my hands and hyperflexibility of the joints, I have a difficult time holding onto my reins. Has anyone used any devices on the reins to help my grip? Thanks!
Joan
13 Aug 2009, 09:49
I am noticing lessened ability to walk, etc. due to arthitis in my spine. This makes me depressed. I don't know where to go for help. My family doctor suggested I see a pain specialist. I did that several years ago and was told there is nothing out there for me. I can't take any of the Nsaid drugs and am on Declofenic and Tylenol.

Am I really doomed to a wheelchair?
Jane Gooding
10 Aug 2009, 13:50
a great place to get a walking cane that is fashionable and stylish is www.fashionablecanes.com. I highly reccomend it!
Judy
16 Jul 2009, 13:08
Call Riley Children's Hospital. They have pediatric rheumatologists.
lonica from indiana
11 Jun 2009, 02:12
I a lookng for a juvinile rheumatologis in indiana for my 12 year old son w live in monroe conty if any one knows any please let us know
christine
02 May 2009, 15:37
I am looking for a holder for a beverage, be it a soda or a coffee from the local store, etc. I would assume it would be like those holders you can get to help you lift and pour half gallon milk cartons, but sized for a drink instead of a half gallon. I have searched all over the internet and have not come up with one yet. I find myself dropping drink classes, etc often because my grip isn't as good as it used to be because of arthritis.
Sherry Watson
10 Apr 2009, 16:44
Hello. I'm an occupational therapist w/ the Veterans Affairs. A 74 yr. old veteran w/ arthritis is having difficulty opening the doors/pushing in the latch of the handle from the outside of his 1979 Dodge van. Do you know of a company that sells an adaptive device to help him w/ this problem? He realizes a newer car would probably not have the same problem for him but he wants to keep and continue to drive his older vehicle. Thank you!

Sherry Watson, OT
John
21 Mar 2009, 17:52
For: Larry Brown - - You might want to try a "gel cushion." You can order it at: www.harrietcarter.com (Item# F5307). I've used one for a couple years and it really helps. ($29.98 is current price.)
Wendy
18 Mar 2009, 09:51
I'm looking for a device to turn the pages on books for a friend of mine. The only think I can find is called Page Flip but it is fairly expensive. Has anyone seen anything else on the market?
Larry Brown
10 Mar 2009, 14:34
I am looking for an special office chairs availiable to accomadate the arthritis in my hips

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