About 1 in 4 American adults suffer from arthritis. The joint stiffness, pain, and general discomfort can make nearly every aspect of their lives more challenging. Working, playing, and performing basic household tasks can be annoying, frustrating and, at times, excruciating.
Arthritis is a broad term for conditions that affect the joints, joint tissue, and other connective tissues. Some common examples include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis. It causes aching, burning, or tingling sensations in the joints that often worsen with activity. Since our joints are involved in nearly all our movement, the daily effects of arthritis are impossible for these millions of Americans to ignore.
If you or a loved one are suffering from an arthritic condition, you know that managing the pain and maintaining joint mobility and function is an ongoing task. Fortunately for arthritis sufferers, one of the safest and most effective tools for managing and overcoming the symptoms of arthritis is readily available in most towns and cities across America: physical therapy.
Why Physical Therapy Works for Arthritis Pain
Physical therapy works because it addresses the root causes of pain, not simply the symptoms. While medications may temporarily mask pain, they do nothing to resolve the underlying conditions that cause it. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and stiffness and increase strength around the affected joints. It can improve joint mobility and improve daily functions. Rather than providing a one-size-fits-all solution like other medical providers, a physical therapist can create a personalized care plan tailored to your exact condition and needs and adjust that plan accordingly as your needs change.
Physical therapy is less risky than surgery or medication, and it empowers you to take control of your pain management in a way that other medical interventions can’t. We know it works because physical therapists are improving the lives of arthritis sufferers every day.
How Physical Therapy Helps Manage Arthritis
Physical therapists are trained to treat people holistically, meaning they are uniquely qualified to develop a management plan that not only considers your symptoms but your hobbies, plans, and lifestyle as well. They have many different tools and techniques at their disposal. Your physical therapy treatment plan may include:
· Pain-relief techniques: Targeted stretches, manual therapy, or other modalities like heat or ice can be used to help manage your pain.
· Targeted exercise programs: Gentle strengthening exercises can help support your joints. Flexibility and range-of-motion exercises can help restore and improve function.
· Education & joint protection: Learning to move smarter through posture and body-mechanics guidance can help you be more active and productive during daily activities like walking, lifting, or household tasks.
These and many other techniques or modalities can be a part of your pain management journey. Physical therapy can help you move beyond pain management into making other real improvements in your quality of life.
The Importance of Staying Active with Arthritis
Another benefit of physical therapy is that it will encourage and support your efforts to stay active. Movement helps lubricate joints and reduce stiffness. Regular movement is an important part of treating your arthritis symptoms. Too much rest can actually make your symptoms worse. A skilled physical therapist can provide you with tailored stretches and exercises to keep you active and can also be a great source of motivation and encouragement.
It’s also important to move safely. Consistency is more important than intensity. Your therapist can help you be sure you are moving correctly and the right amount. They can also adjust your routines as needed to ensure your routine is optimized and progressing along with you.
How Do You Know When to See a Physical Therapist About Your Arthritis?
The short answer is: anytime, and as soon as possible. A more detailed answer would be to look out for certain signs that you may need some help:
· If you have difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or gripping objects
· If your pain limits your daily activities and prevents you from doing what you normally would
· If you have morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes
These are just a few examples of the warning signs that should have you scheduling an appointment as soon as possible. Also, keep in mind that early intervention can slow the progression of your symptoms and improve your long-term outcomes. Don’t put it off. The sooner you start, the greater your chances of success.
