As we all age, our bodies experience a certain “wear and tear” on cartilage and joints. This can cause inflammation and pain, known as arthritis. According to the American Arthritis Foundation, Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, making itself apparent in people as they age. It can certainly take a toll on one’s body, resulting in achy or painful joints after exercise, after a long day on one’s feet, or even after prolonged periods of inactivity, thus causing joints to constrict.
The most common areas of Osteoarthritis are found in the fingers, hips, knees, and spine. These are all joints that we use excessively, even in our daily lives. Just think - by the time you lift yourself out of bed, shower, brush your teeth, eat breakfast, and prepare to begin your day, you’ve already used these joints a multitude of times. Therefore, it isn’t surprising that pain can occur in them over time. If you believe you may be experiencing Osteoarthritis, give one of our physical therapists a call today to discuss pain relief.
Why do we experience Osteoarthritis?
While it is true that Osteoarthritis is most common in older folks, that is not always necessarily the case. It is possible that Osteoarthritis can present itself in younger adults, especially if they are prone to weak joints, poor dieting, or if they aren’t very active. Your cartilage works hard to protect your joints by absorbing the natural shocks that your body experiences on a daily basis. Therefore, much of your likelihood regarding Osteoarthritis
is dependent upon the physical and nutritional lifestyles you partake in. Joint alignment can alter and the muscles around a joint can weaken over time, causing the cartilage to shift or thin. As cartilage wears down, Osteoarthritis becomes much more common.
As Osteoarthritis progresses, more symptoms can arise. The most common symptoms are:
• Joint pain.
•Swelling or tenderness in or around the joint(s).
•Inflammation or flare-ups of pain in the joint(s) after use.
• Feeling stiff after sitting or laying down for prolonged periods of time, especially when getting up in the morning.
•Crepitus - also referred to as a “cracking or crunching” feeling when moving the joint(s), or the sound of bone rubbing on bone.
At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you. Call today to schedule a consultation!
Reddy Care Great Neck (Great Neck Physical Therapy): 516-829-0030
Reddy Care Farmingdale (Farmingdale Physical Therapy): 516-420-2900
In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): 516-829-0030
