Physical Therapy for Chronic Pain Related to Arthritis
on Thursday, August 9, 2018CHRONIC PAIN ASSOCIATED WITH ARTHRITIS
Rhematoid Arthritis is typically diagnosed in adults between the ages of 30 to 50, though it can develop at any age. Early symptoms can begin to occur as early as age 18. In most cases, rheumatoid arthritis symptoms present in the smaller joints first, such as the fingers and toes.
The most common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is joint pain. You may notice that the pain in your joints comes on at certain times and then fades away completely. This is called a flare. Flares can last for a few days or even longer. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can result in painful, restricted mobility that lessens the quality of the patient’s life.
Our job at Renew Physical Therapy is to detect any biomechanical and lifestyle contributing factors to persistent pain conditions with a thorough subjective interview and physical examination.
PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR ARTHRITIS PAIN
The fundamental goals of physical therapy in treating arthritis include improving mobility, restoring the use of affected joints, increasing strength to support the joints, and maintaining fitness so that patients can perform everyday activities.
If you are suffering from rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, here are four reasons to seek physical therapy:
- IMPROVE POSTURE TO RELIEVE PAIN. Physical therapy can improve posture and body mechanics with the aim to relieve pain and improve function.
- HELP WITH WALKERS AND CANES. Trained therapists can assist patients in the navigation of assistive devices such as walkers and canes.
- MULTIPLE TREATMENT OPTIONS. Physical therapy employs treatment options, such as hot and cold therapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, massage, specialized mobilization and taping techniques, as well as therapeutic stretching/strengthening exercises to ease joint pain and stiffness, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.
- SUGGEST BEHAVIOR MODIFICATIONS. A physical therapist can suggest behavioral modifications that support a patient’s lifestyle and help improve his/her condition. Education is a pillar of physical therapy and is a great tool in the treatment of arthritis.
One in three rheumatoid arthritis patients wishes they had more treatment options when presented with medication as the primary option. Physical therapy is a positive alternative with a proven record of improving quality of life for sufferers of both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Renew Physical Therapy is proud to serve Portland-area residents suffering from chronic pain and mobility issues. Renew Physical Therapy utilizes several therapeutic modalities to restore our patients to pain-free function.
Visit our About Us page to learn more about our practice, clinic, and staff. You can also read more about our Chronic Pain Treatment and Physical Therapy for Car Accidents. Call us at 503.928.4914 to schedule an appointment.
Renew Your Body, Reclaim Your Life!