What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease which affects one or more joints. There are several varieties of arthritis that affect individuals; each type of arthritis uniquely produces physical discomfort. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the 2 most frequent kinds of arthritis. Pain and stiffness in the joints may worsen with age eventually; however, it may also suddenly manifest. Most of the time, arthritis affects people over 65 (and youngsters on rare occasions). Women are more likely than males to get arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. On the other hand, males are more likely to get gout, another kind of arthritis. Obesity is a key cause of arthritis, which is often encountered in overweight individuals.
Is Physiotherapy Beneficial?
Numerous types of physiotherapy are very beneficial in alleviating the pain associated with arthritis. If you have arthritis, most physicians will prescribe medication and arrange for you to see a physiotherapist.
A physiotherapist can help you understand how arthritis affects your joints and muscles. Additionally, they will provide you with valuable advice on managing your pain through physiotherapy. These physiotherapy treatments can be performed on your own, or in some situations, by experts.
Understanding Arthritis Physiotherapy Treatments
A physiotherapist will assist you in comprehending the changes which occur in your joints and muscles due to arthritis. Understanding your rheumatoid arthritis can assist you in managing its symptoms.
Managing your pain
Arthritis can produce localized pain in one body area, or widespread joint and muscle discomfort. While pharmaceuticals will assist, a physiotherapist may advise you on other techniques of pain treatment that work in conjunction with your medications. Between consultations, you’ll be able to continue with some of these therapies on your own:
- Ice packs to relieve the pain associated with heated, swollen joints
- Heat packs for relaxation of stiff, tired muscles
- Splinting swollen or painful joints may be beneficial; for example, during rheumatoid arthritis flare-ups. Temporary splints may be prescribed by your physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
- TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) works by interfering with the transmission of pain signals to the brain and modifying your sense of pain.
Maintaining a healthy pace
Excessive activity can exacerbate discomfort, but so can too little activity. Your physiotherapist may advise you on gradually increasing your activity level, while still maintaining a healthy balance of rest and exercise. Planning your activities so you don’t overdo it will allow you to enjoy the activities you want.
Adding intensity to exercise
Enhancing your fitness and stamina will enable you to raise your activity level while minimizing discomfort. Gradually increasing workout intensity will help strengthen your muscles and joints and improve your fitness level. Regular exercise stimulates the creation of endorphins, your body’s natural pain-relieving hormones.
Increasing your fitness level
Maintaining an active lifestyle is critical while living with arthritis. Exercise can enhance your overall fitness level, assist you in losing or maintaining a healthy weight, improve your general mobility, and help you feel more confident. Many individuals are scared that exercise will aggravate their pain or worsen their joint problems – yet joints are made to move, and the muscles and tissues around them get weaker when they are not utilized. This can result in the instability of your joint, limiting your movement and freedom.
Mobilizing, stretching and strengthening
Arthritis can result in joint stiffness and muscular weakness, impairing your daily activities. Your physiotherapist will measure your muscle strength and joint range of motion, and advise you on strategies and exercises to keep your joints functioning optimally.
To learn more about effective treatment for arthritis, visit Fraser Life Physio online or call us in Langley at (778) 278-4755 today.
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