Kinetix: Staying Active & Becoming Better Balanced

352-505-6665

Health & Wellness Newsletter

NEWSLETTER

FIND BALANCE ONCE AGAIN WHILE LIVINGWITH ARTHRITIS

INSIDE: • What Should I Look For? • Relieve Back Pain In Minutes • Patient Success Spotlight • Healthy Recipe

Whether you have hurt your back or have been suffering for a long time, seeing a physical therapist at Kinetix Physical Therapy can help you return to a more active and pain-free life. Give us a call at 352-505-6665 today!

Arthritis is a common condition impacting millions of Americans. It can cause pain, stiffness, and general discomfort in the affected joints, but did you know it can also cause issues with balance? It not only presents the issue of weakened cartilage and muscles surrounding the joints, but it can also make you feel dizzy or unsteady because of the harsh impact it has on your skeletal system. The way in which you walk (referred to as “gait”), your posture, and your balance can all be affected by physical changes in the skeletal system. Balance issues are especially common if your arthritis is located in your hips, knees, ankles, or neck. If you are suffering from arthritis and it is limiting your ability to walk or balance yourself, call Kinetix Physical Therapy today to schedule a evaluation with a physical therapist. Why is my arthritis affecting my balance? It is important to note that while there are over 100 different types of arthritis that can cause distress on the joints, the three most common types are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting approximately 21 million adults across the nation. It is a form of degenerative joint disease caused by “wear and tear” of the cartilage that surrounds the joints, typically as a result of older age. The role of cartilage is to cushion the bones and absorb shock, but when that cushion is diminished, the bones begin to rub together. This can result in severe pain, especially when walking, causing you to feel imbalanced and unsteady.

Rheumatoid arthritis , also referred to as “inflammatory arthritis,” affects more than 2 million Americans. Unlike the natural wear-down of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis occurs as a result of the body’s own immune system. This happens when the immune system attacks the tissue lining the joint, viewing it as a threat. In turn, the joints become inflamed and swollen, which can cause deformities or even entire loss of function with time, thus limiting movement and mobility. Since this condition stems from the immune system, additional symptoms can also include fatigue, fever, and an overall sensation of feeling unwell. These symptoms may also contribute to balance issues, as they can leave you feeling dizzy and disoriented. Gout impacts the lives of over 8 million Americans. This form of arthritis is the body’s natural reaction to abnormal crystal deposits in the joints, known as “tophi.” Those who suffer from chronic gout may notice small, firm lumps in or around their affected joint(s). These deposits can cause intense pain and stiffness to the disturbed area, and may cause damage to bone or cartilage over time. If gout occurs in the ankle, knee, or hip, the pain and stiffness may make walking or standing difficult, thus causing balance issues.

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