Osteoarthritis is an extremely common condition that affects the joints. They become stiff, painful and harder to move as the osteoarthritis progresses. This can be a very slow process, which takes years before a diagnosis is finally given.
Since writing is a hobby that can be done well into old age, it is likely that a large number of writers across the world suffer from osteoarthritis. This includes well-known authors and amateurs who secretly type away in their rooms for their own personal benefit. If writers do have this condition, they can actually utilise it to their advantage and even improve their work. Writing is not a physical activity but an intellectual one. It is useful to think of osteoarthritis as a kind of tool.
Use The Condition For Inspiration
Writers are frequently told to draw from their own life experiences and write what they know. This is a very useful technique for people who have a creative block. Writing about their joint condition could be a great starting point to a new project. It is a perfect way of turning the negative experience of osteoarthritis into something more productive.
Spend Rest Times Writing
Rest is a very important way of slowing the progression of joint conditions. It is often prescribed as a treatment for osteoarthritis along with specific exercises recommended by a physical therapist. During these times of rest, it is bad for mental health to just sit back and do nothing. Instead, these free hours are best spent perfecting the art of writing. If the patient has never even put pen to paper before this situation is perfect for them give it a go for the first time.
Use The Experience To Write Non Fiction
It is not just fiction authors that can benefit from writing about osteoarthritis. People more focused on non-fiction can describe their real-life experiences with it. This could be in the form of an autobiography, journal or guide for fellow sufferers.
Create An Osteoarthritis Metaphor
It is fair to say that osteoarthritis is a painful condition. The severity of pain will depend on the progression, as well as the weight and activity levels of the patient. Humans naturally personify certain aspects of life. They could even do this for their condition and the pain associated with it. Turning osteoarthritis into a metaphor can help the writer process their feelings towards it.
Encourage Other Sufferers To Write
People with osteoarthritis will sometimes join groups of other sufferers so that they can discuss their problems and give each other advice. During these meetings, an author could encourage their fellow members to write about their experiences with the condition. It could help them to improve their own mental health and prevent osteoarthritis from being so debilitating on their overall wellbeing. It will also be a welcome distraction from the undoubted pain.