Arthritis can be a debilitating condition that can make it difficult to move and enjoy life. There is no cure for arthritis, but several treatments can help ease the symptoms. Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis.
It can help people with arthritis improve their joint range of motion, increase muscle strength, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve balance and coordination. In this article, we will see how physical therapy can achieve this.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis. Here’s how it helps:
Improved Joint Range of Motion
One of the main goals of physical therapy for arthritis is to improve joint range of motion. This is the amount of movement that a joint can make. When joints are stiff, it can be difficult to perform everyday activities, such as walking, getting dressed, and bathing.
Physical therapists use a variety of exercises to improve joint range of motion. These exercises may include:
- Range-of-motion exercises to gently stretch the joint
- Joint mobilization to move the joint through its full range of motion
- Heat therapy to relax the muscles and make it easier to move the joint
- Cold therapy to reduce pain and inflammation, which can make it easier to move the joint
Increased Muscle Strength
Weak muscles can put more stress on the joints, which can make arthritis pain worse. Physical therapists can help increase muscle strength through a variety of exercises, such as:
- Strengthening exercises to build muscle mass and strength
- Resistance training to help build muscle strength
- Functional exercises to help people perform everyday activities
Reduced Pain and Inflammation
Physical therapy can also help reduce pain and inflammation. This can be done through a variety of techniques, such as:
- Heat therapy
- Cold therapy
- Massage therapy
- Stretching to improve flexibility and reduce pain
Improved Balance and Coordination
Arthritis can sometimes affect balance and coordination. This can make it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as walking, getting up from a chair, and climbing stairs. Physical therapists can help improve balance and coordination through a variety of exercises, such as balance and coordination activities.
Teach Patients Proper Body Mechanics
Proper body mechanics can help reduce the stress on the joints and prevent injuries. Therapists can teach people with arthritis how to use proper body mechanics when performing everyday activities, such as lifting, carrying, and bending.
Teach Patients How to Manage Their Arthritis Symptoms
Therapy can also help people with arthritis learn how to manage their symptoms. This may include teaching them how to:
- Use assistive devices, such as canes or walkers
- Manage their pain medication
- Make lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking
Promote Healthy Lifestyle Changes
If you are living with arthritis, there are many things you can do to cope with the condition. Here are some lifestyle changes your therapist can recommend:
- Stay active – Exercise is important for everyone, but it is especially important for people with arthritis, as it can help reduce pain, improve flexibility, and strengthen muscles.
- Lose weight – Losing a few pounds can help reduce the stress on your joints if you are obese or overweight.
- Manage stress – Stress can worsen arthritis symptoms. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
- Get enough sleep – Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. When you are well-rested, you are better able to cope with the pain and fatigue of arthritis.
- Eat a healthy diet – A healthy diet can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
How to Find a Physical Therapist
If you are considering physical therapy for arthritis, it is important to find a physical therapist who is experienced in treating this condition. You can ask your doctor for a referral or search for a physical therapist online.
When you are interviewing physical therapists, be sure to ask about their experience with arthritis, their treatment philosophy, and their availability. You should feel comfortable with the physical therapist and their staff.
The Best Physical Therapist in Sherman, TX
Physical therapy is a safe and effective treatment for arthritis. It can help improve joint range of motion, increase muscle strength, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve balance and coordination. If you are living with arthritis, physical therapy can help improve your quality of life.
If you’re looking for the best physical therapist in Sherman, TX, look no further than Carrus Health Specialty Hospital. Our therapists are highly skilled, compassionate, and experienced in helping patients living with arthritis and other chronic conditions. You may reach out to our helpful staff at (903) 870-2600, so we can assist you. You can also schedule an appointment with us through our secure online request form.
We look forward to helping ease your joint pain!
