Hello readers! My name is Claire and I'm here to share a bit about my journey with arthritis as well as the top products that have been getting me through this tough time.

 

About Me:

I'm a retired journalist of 67 years young. About 4 years ago, I was diagnosed with arthritis in my hands and shoulders after my doctor checked an MRI scan of these areas. In all this time, I've scoured the internet for products to help ease pain, provide support and make daily life easier. 

 

Here is my honet review on the best products for arthritis.

 

1. Clothing

Here's the deal, friends. I am a big-busted lady who already had a tough time finding bras and other clothing that fit me without the extra challenge of arthritis in my hands. But I searched high and low on the internet, tested a TON and finally found some winners

• A bra I can actually get on: As a 42DDD gal going braless is not an option so I was having my husband put on my bras until I came accross this brand on Facebook. What a game-changer! Now I get dressed myself. (I actually went back and bought this seamless one recently as well).
• Compression Hand Gloves: I tried the more structured braces and found them to be too tricky to get in and out of. However, these gloves are easy to slip on, feel great to wear, and come in nice colors.
• Elastic Pants that are actually cute: I bought the XXL and not only do these make me feel put together, I don't have to choose between sweats or dress pants with painful buttons and tiny zips.

 Takeaway: Consider your lifestyle and what kinds of clothing challenges you have. Most of us need a bra, so start with the basics and build off of that!

 

2. Kitchen Tools

I'm of Italian heritage so cooking and sharing meals with loved ones is a part of my DNA! I certainly wasn't going to let my arthritis stop me, so I tried various kitchen solutions. Here are my most used items:

• A T-Handle Knife: This version specifically is my favorite because the handle fits my hand! So many of these are designed for men's hands which tend to be larger. 
• An Automatic Jar Opener: Twisting and pressure became a no-go for me but this little tool can open nearly everything! Plus it sits under the counter so it's not taking up counter space.
• This Cutting Board: saved my life in the kitchen. It has spikes and edges that keep food in place so you don't have to struggle to hold and cut at the same time.  

Takeaway: Ergonomic kitchen tools will help minimize the strain on your joints and let you check things off your daily to-do list with more comfort.

 

4. Topical Creams & Supplements 

If you ask for the best products for arthritis anywhere online, chances are at least ten people will be ready to share thier go-to cream with you. Here were the best that worked for me. Bonus points if it applied like lotion and didn't feel gross.

• Voltaren: You can pick these up at your local Target. It's an NSAID so I keep the extra-strength version on my bedside table for when pain keeps me from sleeping. Your physician can also prescribes it at a stronger dosage.
• This Cream: I find I have to apply it about 3 times during the day but when I do, it helps the pain ease quite a bit.
• This Supplement (Glucosamine): I was wary of going down the supplement path but have been pleased with this brand.

Takeaway: Sometimes you just need something for the pain ASAP. Be careful to test one lotion at a time in case you are allergic to the ingrediants, and give each one some time before buying more.

 

5. Home Goods

At my age comfort is a non-negotiable, so getting my home set up with products that would ease my arthritis pain was essential. 

• Shampoo Dispensers: Squeezing bottles was incredibly painful, so I updated my shower with a dispenser that I can simply nudge with my elbow or shoulder.
• A lightweight vaccum: Yes, you can spend $800 on a dyson but my style is a bit more budget conscious so I would suggest this version that is also lightweight, cordless, and easy to use.
• The Matress You Need: may depend on a ton of factors including your weight and specific needs but I tested some in-store and then chose this on a recommendation from multiple arthritis and aging adult awareness sites.

Takeaway: There is an easier option for nearly every home good so don't make yourself suffer. Pick your biggest pain points (pun intended) and start looking for the features that would make life easier. For me it was lighter, more supportive, and finding ways to work around painful motions (like squeezing). 

 

 

Managing arthritis doesn’t have to mean swapping out your everyday items all at once. From ergonomic tools to easy on bras and a mattress you can sleep well on, these must-have products for arthritis can enhance your daily life and help you reclaim your independence. I hope my list gives you peace of mind and helps provide the comfort and ease you are looking for.