Only now have you received a diagnosis from your doctor saying that you suffer from osteoarthritis or osteoarthritis. You are likely to be talking about x-rays and a non-reversible chronic condition.
However, not only your joints "suffer", but also the emotional system. If you feel frustrated, changing moods that range from intentionally ignoring the physical state to an intense focus on pain, then you are going through a process of emotional processing to get the new situation.
Many do not believe in the new diagnosis and find themselves in a temporary phase of denial. Over time, the realization that this is a chronic condition that includes pain and decline in physical function permeates. As with any change, healthy emotional coping will help you overcome the illness easily.
Gold Rules for Emotionally Coping with Osteoarthritis:
- This is the symptoms of the illness and the emotional difficulty involved. Knowing the symptoms will reduce the element of surprise and make it easier for you to receive them.
- Once you have decided on the course of treatment (medication, practice, etc.) - stick to it, be consistent, and do everything possible to succeed in your new way.
- This is exactly the time to do things you love, meet friends, and share your experiences.
- Support groups can also be a temporary solution to dealing with and accepting the changes involved in the problem.
- Let go of perfectionism. Forgive yourself! If you previously demanded a perfect performance on your own for purposes like attaching the sheet to the bed, they may now do it in stages. Over time, you will learn how to recruit new tactics to perform tasks.
- Go to places like Yad Sarah or medical equipment stores and consult with professionals who can offer you aids that may make your life easier. At the same time, or separately, you can consult with an occupational therapist and physical therapist to help you tailor equipment to your personal needs.
The writer is the director of an orthopedic department at Barzilai Hospital in Ashkelon
The information in the article above is for prevention recommendations only and does not constitute a medical opinion or substitute for professional medical advice. In the event of a medical problem, a qualified medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and adjustment of treatment.
