Physical Therapy for Arthritis

Arthritis — inflammation of the joints — affects millions worldwide, and about one in five American adults. There are more than 100 forms of arthritis, but two of the most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis involves wear-and-tear damage to the joint cartilage that protect the ends of your bones. Weight-bearing joints such as the knee and hip are most typically affected. Enough damage can result in bone grinding directly on bone, causing pain and restricted movement. This wear and tear can occur over many years, or it can be hastened by a joint injury or infection.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the joint lining, known as the synovial membrane. This lining surrounds the entire joint and can become inflamed and swollen. The disease process can also eventually destroy cartilage and bone within the joint.

Arthritis symptoms

Symptoms include:

Pain
Stiffness
Swelling
Redness
Decreased range of motion

Family history also plays a role in who will get arthritis, along with age, sex (women over 50 are more commonly affected than men), health and work history, previous joint injury, and obesity.

Physical Therapy Can Help!

Our arthritis therapy program is designed to help through a combination of physical therapy treatments, home exercise plan, and education. Our goal is to lessen your pain and discomfort and improve your overall daily functioning.

Treatment to improve range of motion
Pain relief therapy
Soft tissue mobilization
Treatment to strengthen muscles surrounding joints

Use of splints or braces as protocol requires
Tailored home exercise program to improve flexibility, strength, coordination and balance
Body mechanics assessment/correction
Education on management and prevention strategies.

Should your physician decide that joint replacement is indicated, we work with you on pre- and post-op physical therapies to help speed recovery and help you return to your favorite activities.