Physiotherapy For Arthritis
What is arthritis?
The term arthritis means inflammation of the joints. It is a painful condition, which can occur in any joint in the body.
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
The most common symptoms of arthritis are joint pain that comes and goes, swelling, and stiffness (particularly in the morning). The cause and location in the body arthritis occurs have an impact on how disabling the condition can be.
Are there different types of arthritis?
There are a number of different types of arthritis, but the most common include:
- Osteoarthritis, caused by bone on bone friction due to the loss of protective cartilage, common in the hip and knee joints.
- Rheumatoid arthritis, caused by auto-immune inflammation, common in the hands, wrists, and feet.
- Traumatic arthritis, caused by the body’s normal healing processes in response to injury. Reactive arthritis is temporary and can be effectively treated with physical therapy.
Can physiotherapy help?
There are many treatment options a physiotherapist can provide to help you manage your arthritis, by controlling pain symptoms, and improving strength, flexibility and mobility.
Controlling pain symptoms
Physiotherapy is effective in managing the pain associated with arthritis through multiple different treatment approaches:
- Splinting swollen or painful joints can be used to prevent painful movements.
- Ice packs can soothe hot, swollen joints.
- Electrical nerve stimulation can relieve pain symptoms associated with arthritis.
- Education is a core component of managing pain.
- Behavioural modification can help avoid and correct biomechanical problems that may exacerbate symptoms.
Increasing strength, flexibility, and mobility
Arthritis can limit your ability to participate in day-to-day activities due to pain or stiffness in your joints. Physical activity has been shown to have a positive effect on the symptoms of arthritis. Your physiotherapist can help assess your strength and range of movement, and recommend stretches and exercises to help improve the function of your joints.
When should I see a physiotherapist?
If your arthritis is causing you discomfort and affecting your quality of life, physiotherapists can help relieve your symptoms and help you live life to the fullest.
Do you think you need physiotherapy for Arthritis?
If you think you do need physiotherapy for Arthritis then give one of our 4 clinics in Adelaide a call. We are here to help you & your health where possible. With over 30 years experience we can help you.
