Slide show: Joint protection for people with arthritis pain

Arthritis causes joints to become stiff and sometimes inflamed. Arthritic joints can't tolerate much stress, so pushing, pulling and twisting motions can be painful.

Joint protection is one of the most effective ways to avoid or relieve pain and prevent further joint damage. And joint protection can be incorporated into your everyday life. Take this visual tour to learn some joint-protection techniques. Talk to your doctor or other health care professional about other joint-protection ideas.

Avoid making a tight fist or pinching objects tightly. Instead, use a grasp that places your knuckles parallel to the handle of the tool or utensil. A built-up handle will make it easier for you to grasp objects in this way.

Avoid making a tight fist or pinching objects tightly. Instead, use a grasp that places your knuckles parallel to the handle of the tool or utensil. Consider using special key holders to help you turn keys more comfortably and with less strain.

Avoid holding items in a tabletop position — that is, bending the large knuckles of your hand while keeping the middle and end joints straight. Instead, hold the object in your palms.

When coming to a standing position, slide forward in your chair. Don't move your feet forward. Keeping your feet slightly apart, use your legs to stand up. If necessary, push up on the arms of the chair or a nearby table with your palms (top right) or forearms (bottom right). Don't use your fingers to push up.