How Physical Therapy Can Help Arthritis Symptoms

Arthritis can be an ongoing and constant struggle, with the help of physical therapy it is possible to manage pain and get the help you need.

Arthritis is a very common condition that can occur in people of all ages and backgrounds. Arthritis is a disease that causes joint pain and degeneration. It can vary in severity and location, mostly affected by genetics. More than 50 million people suffer from over 100 different kinds of arthritis and it frequently progresses as you grow older.

Arthritis Symptoms

The early warning signs of arthritis can be numerous. Many experience fatigue, decreases in motion, numbness, and tingling in appendices. As arthritis progresses the symptoms can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving a joint. If you believe that you may be experiencing arthritis symptoms, talk to your doctor or physician for a diagnosis and treatment options.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy can help to get you or a loved one motivated and moving again. Arthritis can be an unwelcome and painful condition. Physical therapy is a process to improve mobility and of affected joints, increase strength, maintain fitness, and preserve ability for independence and performance of daily activities. This type of therapy can improve quality of life and get you or a loved one well on their way to alleviating the pain and discomfort from arthritis.

The Process

The process of physical therapy begins with you meeting with a physical therapist and developing an individualized plan to get you toward your goals. Begin by speaking of your pain and limitations, and they may perform different tests to analyze your needs. Your individualized plan will be based off your abilities and condition severity.

You will begin sessions; this could be weekly or monthly depending upon your needs. You will begin to do exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. Your physical therapist can teach you proper posture to relieve pain, as well as recommending different options for splints or braces. They can also provide expert tips for at home therapy, like using hot or cold presses to alleviate pain. Physical Therapists can even go over ways to customize your home space to increase comfort and encourage better movement.

What Should I Look for in a Physical Therapist?

The easiest way to find a physical therapist suitable for your needs is for you or a loved one is to approach your doctor for a recommendation. Your doctor knows your individual condition and could recommend a physical therapist that is best for you. The internet can also be a wonderful resource for when seeking a physical therapist, you can research the best physical therapists best for arthritis therapy in the area. Also researching highly rated therapy offices and asking friends for recommendations on physical therapists they have visited may help your search. There is also the option of going to several physical therapists to see which one is right for you. It is imperative to find out which one are compatible with your insurance as well.

At Aegis Homecare and Hospice, we offer various home health care plans that include physical therapy to help your life get back on track. We can help with daily activities and help to strengthen your joints and alleviate pain. Our trained professionals are sure to give you the individualized care you need.