RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
PATIENT SUCCESS STORY “I recently had a major surgery following an accident. I cannot express how happy and relieved I am as I approach my 6th physical therapy session with Highland Physical Therapy. Jeff Gersch Is amazing. When I came in 3 weeks after surgery I was crying in pain and very uncomfortable. Needless to say, 3 days ago I stopped taking the “Opioid” pills completely!!! I couldn’t stand the side effects and I cannot take any over- the-counter anti-inflammatories because I have a blood clot. Jeff is bringing me to levels that I couldn’t dream of before I came in. Thank you Jeff and staff!” — Andrew S.
Most discussions of arthritis focus on osteoarthritis, and for good reason: it’s the most common form of arthritis in the United States. However, about 2-3% of the population develops rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It causes similar symptoms as osteoarthritis, including joint pain and limited mobility. The good news is that physical therapy can help manage rheumatoid arthritis just as it can osteoarthritis. If you’ve recently received an RA diagnosis, schedule an appointment at Highland Physical Therapy to learn what we can do for you. What You Should Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis What It Is — RA is an autoimmune condition occurring when your body’s immune system attacks otherwise healthy cells – in this case, the soft tissue in your joints. Researchers currently aren’t clear on what causes this to happen, however. Signs and Symptoms — RA is an autoimmune condition occurring when your body’s immune system attacks otherwise healthy cells – in this case, the soft tissue in your joints. Researchers currently aren’t clear on what causes this to happen, however.RA’s symptoms tend to go through cycles of flares and remissions. This means you’ll have periods where symptoms are more intense and periods where they are less troublesome. These symptoms include: • Pain and swelling in joints on both sides of your body • A gradual onset of joint pain, starting with the small joints in your fingers • Stiffness and restricted range of motion in the affected joints, particularly first thing in the morning • Redness, warmth, and tenderness in the affected joints • Fatigue, low-grade fever, and a general sense of feelin g unwell What Else Should I Know? — RA is more common among women than men. As with other forms of arthritis, regular physical activity can help manage RA symptoms. In fact, physical therapy at Highland Physical Therapy offers a great, drug-free approach to managing RA. Want to learn more? Contact us to schedule your appointment today!
HIGHLAND Click on one of the links below or scan the QR code to visit our review page and share your success story with others. Help Us Help Others! MARLBORO By sharing your physical therapy success story, you can inspire others to find relief from their pain and start living a healthier, stronger, and more active life.
Are You In PAIN? You may benefit from physical therapy if you suffer from:
• Lower Back Pain • Arthritis • Sciatica
• Shoulder Pain • Knee Pain • Problems Walking • Dizziness • Sports Injury
• Neck Pain • Headaches
We can get you out of pain and back to the things you love! 845.813.0550
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