ARTHRITIS: THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE PAIN
The major complaint by individuals who have arthritis is joint pain which limits their function. Joint pain is often a constant and daily feature of the disease. This pain is caused by inflammation that occurs around the joint, damage to the joint from disease, daily wear and tear, muscle strains caused by forceful movements against stiff, painful joints, and fatigue. A very common problem with arthritis is that the joints become more stiff, limiting motion, and the muscles become weak, taking away much needed support to the joints. The difference between the most common types of arthritis can be seen in the knee, for example. The knee is an incredible joint that absorbs tremendous forces. The knee moves through multiple planes of movement and has different accessory motions that combine to make fluid motions of the lower leg. The cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away with Osteoarthritis. When the cartilage – the slick, cushioning surface on the ends of bones – wears away, it becomes rough, and bone rubs against bone, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. Over time, joints can lose strength and pain can worsen. With rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. This inflammation causes pain and stiffness, as well as joint erosion that could cause damage to other parts of the body. Recent studies have found that a combination of genetics and environmental factors can trigger autoimmunity. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further joint damage.
PHYSICAL THERAPY: THE PATH TO RECOVERY Physical therapy is an important part of the treatment for arthritis. Physical therapy helps to strengthen and stretch the muscles surrounding the affected joints, by moving your muscle groups through a range of motions, such as flexing and extending. This prevents them from becoming weak, tight, or shorter from lack of use. Physical therapy is an integral part of helping you to improve your mobility, strength, and coordination. This in turn, helps you to function better, walk better, and be more active. your treatments, in order to help you achieve your highest levels of physical capability. Your therapist will also provide specific techniques for alleviating pain, which may include laser therapy, manual therapy, or ultrasound. Physical therapy treatments are aimed at relieving pain and reducing the amount of stress and stiffness surrounding your joints. They are meant to help you achieve your physical goals, whether that means simply managing your pain or helping you get back to running, lifting, swimming, or any other physical hobby that is being limited by your condition. exercise, such as bicycling, swimming, or water exercise.
Therapeutic exercise can help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Studies show that light to moderate-intensity physical activity may prevent a decline in, and may even restore, your health and function. Some people with arthritis may be reluctant to exercise because of joint pain after activity. You can take various steps to help relieve pain, such as heat and cold therapy, which may make it easier for you to exercise and stay active. In addition to physical therapy, choose partial or non–weight-bearing
We are here to help reduce the pain from your arthritis and improve your function. Call us today at (727) 369-6355 or visit our website at www.lifeinmotion-therapy.com. You can get back to the activities you enjoy.
Strength training is a crucial aspect of physical therapy treatments, in order to improve the overall strength and function of the affected joint(s). Your physical therapist will guide you through gentle exercises that become more intensive as you progress in
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