Arthritis
Arthritis
Arthritis is a common disorder that affects your joints. It can cause pain and inflammation, making it difficult to move or stay active. There are many types of arthritis. Each form causes different symptoms and may need different treatments. While arthritis usually affects older adults, it can develop in men, women and children of any age.
What To Expect With Arthritis Treatment
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help you keep moving safely and effectively. Physical therapy focuses on protecting the joint and joint mobility through safe strengthening.
What Are the Goals of Physical Therapy?
Improving the mobility and restoring the use of affected joints
Increasing strength to support the joints
Maintaining fitness
Preserving the ability to perform daily activities.
Occupational Therapy
People who have arthritis in their hands often find OT to be very helpful. OTs use massage and other treatments to help manage pain and inflammation including:
Joint mobilization
Gentle exercises
Heat (paraffin wax baths),
Cold therapies (ice, contrast baths, etc),
Splinting
Occupational Therapy also offers education, which can include joint protection principles, ways to conserve energy, and also new/different ways to accomplish tasks that are difficult.
An occupational therapist can offer helpful solutions to everyday problems you may be encountering (how to manage buttons, shoe-tying, and opening containers are just a few common problems OT can help solve).