Are you experiencing pain, muscle aching, stiffness, or swelling? These symptoms could be attributed to arthritis. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis is the most common cause of severe, chronic pain and disability in the United States, limiting the activities of nearly 21 million adults. Thankfully, through physical therapy, individuals with arthritis are able to reduce their pain, increase and maximize joint mobility, muscle flexibility; and prevent functional loss.
Physical Therapy helps maintain joint mobility and range of motion. How much therapy you need, and what kind of therapy will depend on many factors, such as the severity and type of arthritis you have, your age, and your general state of health.
People with arthritis will often avoid moving the affected joint because of the pain. A physical therapist can help the patient work out the joint stiffness without damaging it. In order to perform your daily activity the physical therapist will help you achieve a good range of motion. This may involve building strength in the muscles that surround the affected joint - stronger muscles help stabilize a weakened joint. You will also be taught the best way to move from one position to another, as well as learning how to use such walking aids as crutches, a cane or a walker, if you need one.
A Physical Therapist can make an enormous difference to your quality of life if you suffer from arthritis. A physical therapist will help you learn more about your arthritis and avoiding pain. You will learn how and when to rest - rest is crucial for treating inflammation and pain, especially when many joints are affected and you feel tired.
While there is no cure for arthritis, people can learn techniques to reduce pain and limitations, thereby improving their quality of life. If you or someone you know has arthritis, please give Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy a call at 516-829-0030. We will be happy to help!
Sources: www.apta.org; www.arthritistoday.org; www.cdc.gov
