Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As a physical therapist at Apex Physical Therapy in Hawaii, I have seen many patients with arthritis and understand the impact it can have on their quality of life. In this article, I will explain what arthritis is, how it happens, and how physical therapy can help to treat arthritis.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term that refers to inflammation of the joints. There are several types of arthritis, but the most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the lining of the joints, leading to pain and swelling.
Arthritis can happen due to a variety of factors, including genetics, injury, overuse, and age. While there is no cure for arthritis, there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Physical therapy is one such treatment that can be effective in managing arthritis.
Physical Therapy and Arthritis
Physical therapy can help manage arthritis by improving joint mobility and flexibility, reducing pain and inflammation, and strengthening the muscles that support the affected joint. At Apex Physical Therapy we create a customized treatment plan for each patient, taking into account their individual needs, goals, and medical history.
One of the key benefits of physical therapy for arthritis is that it can help improve joint mobility and flexibility. Range of motion exercises can help keep joints mobile and prevent them from becoming stiff and painful. This can help patients maintain their independence and perform activities of daily living without pain or difficulty.
Physical therapy can also help reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. Modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation can help reduce pain and swelling, while manual therapy techniques can help improve joint function and reduce stiffness.
In addition, physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the affected joint. Strengthening exercises can help support the joint and reduce the stress placed on it, leading to improved function and reduced pain.
In conclusion, arthritis is a common condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. While there is no cure for arthritis, physical therapy can be an effective treatment option to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. At Apex Physical Therapy in Hawaii, we are committed to helping patients with arthritis achieve optimal health and well-being. If you are living with arthritis and would like to learn more about how physical therapy can help, contact us today to schedule a consultation at (808) 521-8500.