Physiotherapy for Arthritis

Physiotherapy for Arthritis

Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for Arthritis. arthritis is the most common type of joint disease.  It occurs due to “wear and tear” – the cartilage in the joints breakdown. Arthritis can happen in any joint but usually occurs in hands, knees, hips and spine. The disease worsens overtime but treatment can help reduce symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Joint pain
• Morning stiffness of the joint that resolves within 30 minutes
• Joint swelling
• Enlarged joints

Causes:

• Meniscus break down of padding between joints
• Injury and infection of a joint
• Genetic and autoimmune causes such rheumatoid arthritis

Risk Factors/Who it Impacts

• Age, – 80% of people with the disease are over age 55.
• Gender- women are 2-3x more likely than men to develop ARTHRITIS
• Obesity- additional pressure is put on hips and knees; this causes the cartilage to break down faster.
• Occupation – job that require frequently putting weight on joints such as knees can affect development (athletes, etc).

Diagnosis:

• Age>45
• Persistent usage related joint pain in one or few joints
• Morning stiffness < 30 minutes.
• Imaging support

Objective of Physiotherapy:

Overaching goal of physiotherapy is to improve quality of life while also addressing the following factors:

• Improve pain
• Improve range of motion and mobility
• Reduce swelling
• Prevent fractures and further injuries

Common Physiotherapy Treatments:

• Pain relief modalities
• Range of motion activities
• Proprioception
• Balance and strength training
• Joint mobilization
• bracing

With the guidance of a trained physiotherapist, arthritis is a disease that can be managed preventatively with the appropriate care and intervention.