Chances are using physical therapy to treat arthritis pain isn’t a new suggestion for you. PT has been a respected treatment option for decades, and is known for helping joint pain and stiffness.
You might have resisted because the idea of putting yourself through painful exercises is not an appealing one. Yet, physical therapists make those moves much less grueling than you might think. More importantly, several types of physical therapy for arthritis pain exist that you may not even be aware of.
Getting in a daily walk
Physical therapists offer many techniques that can help treat arthritis pain. One therapy technique that your therapist may recommend is something you can do every day: take a walk. In fact, studies show that getting plenty of steps can lead to improved joint function. Researchers from one study reveal that every 1,000 steps that knee osteoarthritis patients walked led to an up 18% increase in knee function.
Learning new ways to get around
To deal with arthritis pain, your physical therapist can help you find new ways to accomplish your daily tasks without pain. For instance, your therapist might teach you how to use a grabber to avoid bending over. These specialists also identify body positions, along with non-ergonomic work setups, that contribute to pain. There are ingenious workarounds for many of the moves that cause aching joints that you might never have guessed — whether it’s going up the stairs, emptying the dishwasher or holding your grandchildren.
Making all the right moves
What you may think of as “traditional” physical therapy can also do a world of good for arthritis pain. Gentle exercises, which you can also do at home, help limber up your stiffened joints and muscles. In fact, one study reports that a home exercise program reduced pain by 26% after four weeks. They also strengthen surrounding muscles for better support, and increase your range of motion. All are designed to help arthritic patients move more freely, and with less pain.
Whatcom Physical Therapy can help you find personalized arthritis treatment
Are you ready to find a physical therapy team that can help you treat arthritis pain? Our team at Whatcom Physical Therapy is just the team you need on your side. We offer free screenings designed to help reveal the type of arthritis and symptoms you’re living with. Our therapy specialists also excel at constructing individualized therapy plans intended to reduce arthritis symptoms.
Things keeping you at home? No problem! Our team is currently offering virtual care sessions that allow you to get the therapy you need without leaving home. Even better, you don’t need a doctor’s referral to use any of our therapy services.
Take the next step to start getting our help with your arthritis. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.
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