Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the joint and can cause pain and stiffness. It is estimated that over 50 million adults in the United States alone suffer from some form of arthritis, which can be caused by age, genetics, or injury. Luckily, those struggling with arthritis don’t have to live with debilitating pain and stiffness, as there are various methods today that can help reduce pain and discomfort.
While medications are the most common solution to help relieve some of the symptoms, physical therapy is perhaps the best option to help reduce arthritis pain and improve mobility. Physical therapy treatments such as stretching, strengthening exercises, hot/cold packs, and ultrasound can help reduce pain for people who suffer from this condition without the risk of side effects from medications.
What Is Physical Therapy?
In short, physical therapy uses exercise, posture corrections, and manual manipulation to improve movement, reduce pain and stiffness, promote healing, restore strength and flexibility, and encourage overall wellness. Physical therapists are medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of physical conditions caused by injury or illness.
Physical therapists use various techniques to help their clients achieve their goals. These can include stretching and strengthening exercises, massage, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hot or cold therapy, traction, aquatic therapy (in a pool), and more. They also focus on teaching clients how to maintain healthy habits after treatment has been completed to reduce the risk of the recurrence of their injuries or conditions.
What Will I Get Out of a Physical Therapy Program?
Usually, it takes about three to four months for a person to get the full benefit of physical therapy. When it comes to arthritis, these benefits include improved joint and muscle function, reduced pain levels, improved posture, better balance and coordination, improved movement, tissue healing, and repair.
The main goal of physical therapy is to help restore movement and function while reducing pain. By participating in a physical therapy program, you can expect an individualized treatment plan that focuses on your specific needs and goals. You can also expect to learn how to maintain a healthy lifestyle and improve your overall quality of life. Physical therapists can also teach patients how to use assistive devices such as walkers or wheelchairs when needed. Ultimately, physical therapists help their clients regain their independence.
How Can Diet Affect My Arthritis?
Lifestyle choices, including diet, can significantly affect the management of arthritis and your overall health. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole grains, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins may help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Conversely, avoid foods known to trigger inflammation, such as fried foods, processed meats, and highly refined sugars. Talk to your doctor or therapist if you have any signs of food sensitivity or intolerance. They can help you identify foods that might contribute to inflammation in your body. Additionally, they may recommend supplements that can support healthy joint function.
Takeaway: The Benefits of a Physical Therapist for Arthritis
Physical therapy can be an excellent resource for anyone looking to manage the symptoms of arthritis. With an individualized approach, your physical therapist can guide you through exercises that will help reduce inflammation, improve your range of motion, and strengthen muscles that may have weakened due to lack of use. They can also provide education on adaptive tools for daily living and lifestyle.
If you live in the South Florida area and are interested in physical therapy for arthritis pain, contact USA Sports today. Our physical therapy clinic in Coral Gables, Kendall and the rest of our locations in South Florida offer advanced pain management treatments and physical therapy for arthritis, giving you the tools to manage your symptoms. We also provide a comprehensive approach to health, offering nutrition counseling, fitness classes, and massage therapy as part of our services.
So contact us today to learn more about how we can help you manage your arthritis pain with physical therapy in Coral Gables, Kendall, and Miami-Dade.