Elbow Joint Issues: Rehabilitation Tips for Aging Hands

Elbow joint

Dr.
Chen, greetings! In my younger years, I worked hard and managed the household, like a candle burning at both ends.
After work, I would pick up the children and handle household chores, fearing that a crying child might cause a hernia.
I would carry them on my back while doing housework, and when I wasn't doing chores, I would hold them in my arms.
As a result, the children were happy and smiling, but I was exhausted.
My left wrist often felt weak and unable to exert force! Everything had to come to a halt! I applied hot compresses and ointments, but I still couldn't recover! As I got older, I occasionally rode a heavy motorcycle, yet my left wrist often inexplicably felt weak, as if it were paralyzed, and it hasn't improved for a long time.
I'm worried about the possibility of becoming disabled.
May I ask, doctor: for those of us who are older, besides taking glucosamine and drinking bone broth, should we also take calcium supplements and drink milk? Thank you! Sincerely, Calla.

Kala, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/12

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation

(1) Glucosamine strengthens the cartilage, while calcium supplements, milk, and small dried fish are used to support the hard bone.
Both are not mutually exclusive.
(2) It is best to undergo a nerve conduction study for the wrist to determine the location and severity before treatment.

Reply Date: 2006/08/12

More Info

Hello Calla,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding elbow joint issues and the challenges you face with your left wrist. It sounds like you have been through a lot, balancing work and family responsibilities, which can take a toll on your body, especially as we age.
As we get older, our joints, including the elbow and wrist, can become more susceptible to various issues such as arthritis, tendonitis, and other degenerative conditions. The symptoms you describe, such as weakness and the feeling of your wrist being "soft" or unable to bear weight, could be indicative of several underlying problems, including tendon injuries, nerve compression, or even early signs of arthritis.

Rehabilitation Tips for Aging Hands
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured rehabilitation program with a physical therapist can be incredibly beneficial. They can provide you with tailored exercises to strengthen the muscles around your elbow and wrist, improve flexibility, and enhance overall function. This may include resistance training, stretching, and functional exercises that mimic daily activities.

2. Ergonomic Adjustments: Consider making ergonomic changes in your daily activities. For instance, using tools that are easier to grip or adjusting your workspace to minimize strain on your wrists and elbows can help reduce discomfort.
3. Heat and Cold Therapy: You mentioned using heat packs, which can help alleviate stiffness and improve blood flow. Cold therapy can also be beneficial, especially after activities that exacerbate your symptoms, as it can reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain.

4. Splinting or Bracing: Using a wrist brace or splint during activities that require repetitive motion or heavy lifting can provide support and prevent further injury. This is particularly useful if you experience instability or weakness in your wrist.

5. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Incorporating gentle stretching exercises for your wrists and elbows can help maintain flexibility. Strengthening exercises, focusing on the forearm muscles, can provide better support for your joints. Simple exercises like wrist curls, finger extensions, and forearm pronation/supination can be beneficial.

6. Activity Modification: It may be necessary to modify certain activities that exacerbate your symptoms. For example, if lifting heavy objects causes pain, consider breaking tasks into smaller, manageable parts or asking for assistance when needed.

Nutritional Considerations
Regarding your dietary concerns, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for bone health, especially as we age. Here are some recommendations:
- Calcium: Aim for calcium-rich foods such as dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), leafy greens (kale, broccoli), and fortified foods (orange juice, cereals). If you find it challenging to get enough calcium from food, calcium supplements can be considered, but it's best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

- Vitamin D: This vitamin is crucial for calcium absorption. Sunlight exposure is a natural source of vitamin D, but if you have limited sun exposure, consider foods rich in vitamin D (fatty fish, fortified dairy products) or supplements.

- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Including omega-3 fatty acids in your diet (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) can help reduce inflammation in the body, which may benefit joint health.

- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is also important for joint lubrication and overall health.

Conclusion
It's understandable to be concerned about your symptoms and the potential for long-term issues. However, with the right rehabilitation strategies and nutritional support, many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life. If your symptoms persist or worsen, I recommend consulting with a healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Take care, and I wish you all the best on your journey to recovery!
Best regards,
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