Did you know depression can lead to arthritis?
Many studies link some types of arthritis to mental health and depression. As conditions like osteoarthritis restrict mobility and cause many people physical limitations, it can significantly lead to stress and depression.
Though osteoarthritis only affects the single joint of the body, it can impact the ability of people to move independently. It can stir the frustration that may cause depression in the patients. Many studies have shown the factors demonstrating the severity of stress and depression in arthritis patients. Some of these factors include;
The perception of patients about the pain level
Few connections and social contact with people
Limited mobility of the lower body
Limited mobility of the upper body
The age of the patient
Weight of the patient
While it is not possible to change the age of the patient, experienced and qualified orthopedic specialists such as Dr.Hill targets other factors in the comprehensive treatment plan. He has helped many patients reduce arthritis symptoms and combat depression with various knee and hip treatments.
Let’s delve into the discussion to find more about depression in patients of osteoarthritis.
Depression in the Patients of Osteoarthritis- What Are the Effects
One of the most prominent factors that lead many people with osteoarthritis to depression is social impairment.
Typically, it is physical impairment in osteoarthritis that causes people social impairment. Many people develop stress or experience depressive disorder when they face physical limitations. The social consequence of limited mobility increases depression.
People with conditions like knee osteoarthritis find walking without support difficult. Not being able to walk like a normal person is often depressing for people. In most cases, it becomes impossible or difficult to;
Walk around the neighborhood and chat with neighbors
Go to the malls or parties with friends
Cook dinner
Go out with loved ones or spouse
In fact, people with this condition often avoid planning social activities as they are anxious or feel embarrassed to go out. They are unsure of how people will treat or think about them. In most of these cases, osteoarthritis patients let pain control their social lives.
It is always best to discuss these types of mental issues with your doctor or orthopedic surgeon. It is important to tell them how these problems affect your social activities or life. You need to be honest with the doctor and discuss your feelings of depression.
Ask your doctor the best possible ways you can live with osteoarthritis. You not only need to talk about your pain but also how it affects your life.
How to Identify Depression Signs
If you have osteoarthritis and you find it hard to mingle up with people or socialize, you might be suffering from depression. You need to spot the signs to seek help. Here are some signs that are common in osteoarthritis patients with depression;
Lost interest activities or work
Restlessness at night
Not getting enough sleep?
Staying asleep for longer or oversleeping?
Overeating or loss of appetite
Feel like crying
Persistent headaches
Stomach aches
Summing Up
Osteoarthritis may take a toll on your physical and mental health if not treated timely. If you experience symptoms mentioned above, contact Dr.Hill –an experienced orthopedic surgeon to treat your condition and improve your lifestyle.
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