Osteoarthritis (OA) – or what we will refer to as just arthritis – is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide and the most common form of arthritis among older adults, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility in joints. While there is no cure for arthritis, physical therapy can be a valuable tool in both preventing its onset and managing its symptoms. At Canyon Sports Therapy, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive physical therapy solutions to help you live your best life, including therapies to prevent and manage arthritis.
Identifying the Symptoms of Arthritis
Arthritis manifests with various symptoms, including:
- Pain
- Short-term stiffness in joints
- Bony tenderness
- Decreased range of motion
- Crepitus (a grating sound or sensation in the joint)
- No palpable warmth in the joint area
- Swelling in the joint area
(Rheumatoid arthritis can cause other systemic symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and weight loss)
The symptoms associated with arthritis can range from mild to severe and may be exacerbated by movement or prolonged activity. As arthritis progresses, individuals and seniors may have trouble performing daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or gripping objects. Recognizing these symptoms early on and seeking prompt intervention through physical therapy can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further joint damage through exercise to ease arthritis pain.
Understanding the Causes of Arthritis
Arthritis may stem from various factors:
- Wear and overuse occur when joints are subjected to repetitive stress, leading to the breakdown of cartilage and subsequent inflammation. This is commonly seen in individuals who engage in high-impact activities or have physically demanding jobs.
- Previous injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can also increase the risk of developing arthritis, as they may alter joint mechanics and lead to abnormal stress distribution.
- Age is another significant factor, again as the natural wear and tear on joints over time can contribute to the development of arthritis.
- Long term and unaddressed body misalignment.
- Additionally, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate arthritis symptoms by putting extra strain on the joints and promoting inflammation.
Preventing Arthritis Through Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help in preventing arthritis by addressing underlying risk factors and promoting joint health. By implementing a personalized exercise program, physical therapists promote overall stability, biomechanical balance and maintain flexibility.
Through physical therapy, a person can strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints, improve flexibility, and enhance overall joint function. This not only reduces the risk of injury but also helps to distribute forces more evenly throughout the joint, minimizing wear and tear over time.
At Canyon Sports Therapy, we take it further by providing education to our patients on proper biomechanics to prevent overuse injuries and minimize stress on the joints. By teaching techniques for daily activities and exercise, our physical therapists equip individuals to take control of their joint health and reduce their risk of developing arthritis from factors such as overuse, injury and lack of biomechanical health.
Managing Arthritis Symptoms Through Physical Therapy
For those already living with arthritis, physical therapy can provide relief by reducing pain and improving mobility. Through a combination of biomechanical analysis, therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, arthritis physical therapy exercises, and modalities such as heat and cold therapy, physical therapists can help alleviate pain and stiffness in arthritic joints.
We work with patients to develop individualized strategies for managing arthritis flare-ups and preventing further progression of the disease.
Don’t let arthritis control your future. Through the comprehensive care provided at Canyon Sports Therapy, you can take proactive steps to prevent arthritis and effectively manage its symptoms. By addressing underlying risk factors, promoting joint health, and implementing personalized treatment plans, physical therapy offers a holistic approach to arthritis care that empowers individuals to live active, pain-free lives.
