Arthritis is a condition that can have a profound effect on your day-to-day life. Walking your dog every evening. Playing with your grandchildren. Hobbies like knitting or woodworking. The pain and other symptoms of arthritis can make all these activities and more a trial.
Unfortunately, there are far too many people that have to deal with the negative effects of arthritis. And the numbers are steadily growing. Currently, it’s estimated that about 63 million people have been diagnosed with arthritis. This number is projected to grow by almost 10 million people within the next 10 years. Physical therapy can be beneficial for arthritis pain sufferers, but having as much information as possible about your arthritis can help make your treatment more effective.
What is arthritis?
People suffering from arthritis pain should know as much as possible about their condition. Arthritis is a joint disorder, which features inflammation, pain and stiffness. There is also often a loss in movement with arthritis, as the joints are too inflamed to move. When only a single joint is involved, it’s known as monoarthritis. If two or three joints are involved, it’s referred to as oligoarthritis.
There are more than 100 types of arthritis that have been identified to date. Osteoarthritis occurs due to wear and tear of the cartilage, and rheumatoid arthritis results from an overactive immune system. Many people cannot work due to arthritis and have to go on disability. Additionally, it affects men, women and even children. Arthritic pain can both impede your mobility and decrease your quality of life.
What’s involved in diagnosing arthritis?
Your doctor will examine your joints for deformity and inflammation, look for signs of disease and review your history of symptoms. Blood tests, urine tests, X-rays or joint fluid tests may be ordered. Early diagnosis can prevent disability and irreversible damage. Medications, rest and physical therapy may be recommended to help treat your arthritis.
How physical therapists can help arthritis pain sufferers
Arthritis pain can be miserable and debilitating for those who suffer from it, and unfortunately, there’s no cure for it. A physical therapist can custom-tailor a therapeutic exercise program for you to help mobility and strength. This exercise program will be designed to address several areas of the body.
For example, if you suffer from arthritis pain in the knee, an exercise program will address the lower back, hip and ankle, in addition to the knee. That’s because all these areas contribute to proper knee control and mechanics. Carrying objects, lifting and squatting may also be a part of the treatment plan.
Some of the other therapy techniques often used to treat arthritis symptoms include:
Panther Physical Therapy offers treatment for arthritis pain sufferers
Are you unsure where to find treatment for the arthritis pain you’re suffering from? You can find effective treatment for your arthritis symptoms from our Panther Physical Therapy team. We offer free screenings that can pinpoint the specific type of arthritis you’re dealing with. Our physical therapists also excel at creating personalized therapy plans designed to reduce arthritis symptoms.
Not able to leave home to get your physical therapy? Our team has an answer! We offer virtual therapy and at-home care sessions that you can use right in your very own home. Additionally, we don’t require that you have a doctor’s referral before you begin using our therapy services.
Contact our team today for more information about how we can help you treat arthritis or to schedule an initial appointment.
Tags: Arthritis, Manual therapy, Physical Therapist, Physical Therapy