Physical therapists are often asked about the range of conditions or symptoms that they can help treat, an understandable line of questioning. One common such question: Can physical therapy help with arthritis pain?
At ImPackt Physical Therapy, we’re here to tell you that the answer is absolutely yes. Our physical therapists offer physical therapy programs to South Jordan and nearby patients for numerous conditions or symptoms, including everything from arthritis treatment to deep tissue massage, joint manipulations, laser therapy and much more. Here are some of the specific ways physical therapy helps with arthritis pain and symptoms, plus why to consider this approach to your treatment.
A General Evaluation
When you first visit a physical therapist for treatment, the first thing they will do is provide a general evaluation of your condition. This allows them to better understand how severe your arthritis pain is and the specific areas where it is affecting you. They will also take into account any previous treatments or medications you may have tried, as well as your overall health and lifestyle.
Based on this information, the physical therapist will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include exercises to improve range of motion and strengthen muscles around affected joints, manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and inflammation, and education on proper body mechanics to prevent further damage.
Targeting Pain and Inflammation
Physical therapy can specifically target arthritis pain and inflammation through various techniques. For example, joint mobilizations involve gently moving the joint to reduce stiffness and pain. Soft tissue mobilizations can also be used to target soft tissues, such as muscles and tendons, to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
Ultrasound therapy is another common modality used in physical therapy for arthritis pain relief. This involves using sound waves to penetrate deep into tissues and create a gentle heat that can increase blood flow and promote healing. Laser therapy may also be utilized for similar purposes.
Improving Range of Motion
Arthritis can often limit your range of motion due to stiffness or pain in affected joints. Physical therapists use exercises and stretches to improve flexibility and loosen tight muscles, helping you move more freely without discomfort. They may also recommend assistive devices such as braces or splints to support and protect joints during movement.
Medications or Supplements
In certain cases, physical therapists may also recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to help manage arthritis pain. These may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, as well as supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
Lifestyle Changes
Physical therapy can also address lifestyle factors that may contribute to arthritis pain, such as poor posture or improper body mechanics. Your therapist can educate you on how to make simple modifications in your daily activities that can alleviate stress on affected joints and prevent further damage.
Long-Term Benefits
Physical therapy for arthritis pain relief not only provides immediate relief, but it can also have long-term benefits. By targeting the root cause of your pain and improving joint function, physical therapy can help prevent future flare-ups and reduce the need for medication or surgical intervention.
In addition, physical therapists can educate you on proper body mechanics and lifestyle modifications to manage your condition effectively. This may include tips on how to perform daily activities without aggravating your arthritis.
At-Home Exercises and Tips
One major part of physical therapy for arthritis pain relief is providing you with exercises and tips to continue at home. These may include stretches, strengthening exercises, and self-massage techniques that can help manage symptoms and maintain the progress made during in-clinic sessions.
Importance of Sticking With Physical Therapy
When it comes to physical therapy for arthritis pain relief, consistency is key. It’s important to attend all scheduled sessions and follow the recommended exercises and lifestyle modifications to experience the full benefits of treatment.
Sadly, some people mistakenly believe that if they are not seeing immediate results, physical therapy is not effective for them. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that every individual responds differently to treatment and some may require more time and effort to see significant improvement.
Physical therapy is a valuable approach for managing arthritis pain and improving joint function. Whether you are dealing with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another form of the condition, our experienced physical therapists at ImPackt Physical Therapy can provide targeted treatment tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and start your journey towards better health and mobility, whether you’re in South Jordan or any nearby area.
