Which lifestyle change should the practical nurse recommend to Ms. Wilmot to help manage osteoarthritis?

Which lifestyle change should the practical nurse recommend to Ms. Wilmot to help manage osteoarthritis?

• A. Change of job
• B. More exercise
• C. Assistance with her disabled son
• D. Weight loss

Answer: (D)

Reducing the load on affected joints is a key way to manage osteoarthritis. Excess body weight increases the stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips with every step, accelerating cartilage wear and heightening pain. Losing weight lowers that mechanical burden, often leading to less pain, greater mobility, and an easier daily routine. While adding regular, low-impact exercise is important for strengthening supporting muscles and preserving range of motion, weight loss directly tackles the main factor driving symptoms by decreasing joint load. The other options don’t address this core issue as directly: changing a job might reduce some physical demands but doesn’t guarantee weight reduction or unloading of joints; assistance with a disabled son is essential for overall support but doesn’t improve OA symptoms; increasing exercise is beneficial but not as impactful on joint load unless paired with weight management. Aim for a safe, gradual weight-loss plan combined with a suitable low-impact exercise program to maximize benefits for osteoarthritis.

Reducing the load on affected joints is a key way to manage osteoarthritis. Excess body weight increases the stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips with every step, accelerating cartilage wear and heightening pain. Losing weight lowers that mechanical burden, often leading to less pain, greater mobility, and an easier daily routine. While adding regular, low-impact exercise is important for strengthening supporting muscles and preserving range of motion, weight loss directly tackles the main factor driving symptoms by decreasing joint load. The other options don’t address this core issue as directly: changing a job might reduce some physical demands but doesn’t guarantee weight reduction or unloading of joints; assistance with a disabled son is essential for overall support but doesn’t improve OA symptoms; increasing exercise is beneficial but not as impactful on joint load unless paired with weight management. Aim for a safe, gradual weight-loss plan combined with a suitable low-impact exercise program to maximize benefits for osteoarthritis.