Introduction
Physical Therapy (PT) is a potential arthritis treatment strategy.
You can manage symptoms, increase mobility, and enhance physical function by working with a physical therapist. Additionally, they will teach you certain movements and strategies that will help you move more easily and with less discomfort.
How does physical therapy assist in the treatment of arthritis?
Physical therapy for arthritis aids in symptom relief and improves movement. Daily activities are made simpler as a result.
PT typically consists of the following in an arthritis treatment program:
- Medications
- Supplements
- External treatments
A physical therapist will also assess your body mechanics, posture, and muscular imbalances. They’ll show you how to move more effectively to avoid pain, minimize discomfort, and realign your body.
A physical therapist can provide a personalized workout and stretching program that benefits:
- Pain relief
- Enhance the range of your motion
- Enhance your movement pattern
- It will involve exercises to strengthen the muscles close to the joints, which can enhance function and decrease stress on the joints.
PT for arthritis may also benefit you if:
- Make a home workout schedule
- Increase your overall level of fitness
- Improve your endurance
- Minimize stiffness
- Reduce fatigue
- Increase stability and balance
- Promote Coordination
Types of physical therapy that are beneficial for arthritis
Your issues and treatment objectives will determine the appropriate type of physical therapy for you. Find a physical therapist who focuses on arthritis or a particular body part, such as the hands or feet.
You might be instructed to use: by a physical therapist:
- Exercise equipment
- Aerobic exercise equipment
- Additional tools:
- Foam rollers
- Exercise Ball
- Resistance band
Additionally, they might suggest an aid and show you how to use it. Massage, joint mobilizations, and electrotherapy are examples of passive physical therapy procedures that aid in promoting relaxation.
If you need support with routine duties or work activities, consult an occupational therapist. You’ll pick up tips and exercises to help you move more easily. They might also advise orthotics and house changes.
Can physical therapy worsen arthritis?
Physical therapy seeks to enhance function and reduce the effects of arthritis. Your symptoms shouldn’t get worse or hurt during treatment.
Although, particularly initially, you might find some of the activities difficult. It’s usual to feel some little muscle pain or stiffness after or during a PT session.
Your physical therapist will want to know how you react to treatment and how much discomfort you can handle. If your symptoms worsen, you experience excruciating pain, or you experience problems during or after a session, let them know.
Your physical therapist can adjust your treatment strategy as required. They might switch up their methods or decrease the duration and intensity of your sessions.
Tips for exercising safely if you have arthritis
As long as you exercise carefully, exercise is great for arthritis. Consult your doctor or physical therapist before starting an exercise program for arthritis. They can advise changes and offer exercises that are appropriate.
- Don’t forget to stretch: Before every session, warm up, and cool down at the completion. Before working out, stretch all main muscle groups, paying specific attention to any joints that are prone to discomfort or stiffness.
- Take it slow: Work within your boundaries as you gradually increase the length of your workouts. If you’re experiencing a flare-up, pay attention to your body and take as many pauses as necessary. Give yourself a lot of downtime between workouts.
- Make sure you exercise gently: These pursuits minimize pressure or stress on the joints. They consist of gardening, swimming, and water treatment. Exercises that improve flexibility, balance, and strength can also be incorporated. Exercises that aggravate your symptoms, such as edema, soreness, or stiffness, should be avoided.
Takeaway
Physical therapy can help you move more easily, reduce the symptoms of arthritis, and enhance your general health. Keep up with your daily routine and exercise as much as you can for the best outcomes.
Keep track of the therapies that work best. Visit your physical therapist frequently to go over your progress and any changes to your condition.
If your symptoms get worse or are really serious, speak to a medical expert.
