Most people believe that arthritis is just something that happens naturally as you grow older; a typical and often unavoidable sign of aging. This is not always the case.
Arthritis can occur at any age. In fact, it can be inherited. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is often the result of trauma and/or infection of the joint. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and related autoimmune diseases.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack its own body’s joints. It is a painful inflammatory condition, which can cause substantial loss of mobility due to intense pain and joint destruction.
Do’s and Don’ts
If you or someone you know has arthritis, here are some do’s and don’ts that will help the individual live a healthier, pain-free life.
DOs:
- Consult your physician and discuss all the information about the disease and your experiences. Ask for a detailed evaluation.
- If you are prescribed any medication, be sure to take them as instructed.
- Talk to your physical therapist and ask for an exercise program that will help keep your joints healthy.
- Listen to your body. Stretch and strengthen your muscles as advised by your physical therapist. Be alert for anything that feels uncomfortable.
DON’Ts:
- Overdo it. If there are activities or habits that promote pain, avoid them. Give your joints time to rest.
- Take any medicine without the physician’s approval, especially if you have liver or kidney diseases or are on any other medications.
- Ignore the home exercise routine prescribed by your physical therapist. This may result in decreased joint stability and muscle weakness.
- Overlook the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Talk to your physical therapist as quickly as possible to help avoid serious joint damage.
Exercise is Your Answer
Although there is no cure for arthritis, a joint decision and team effort between you, your physician, and your physical therapist is the best strategy for successful treatment.
An evaluation from your physician, followed by a detailed joint analysis from your physical therapist is the right step to take. Once you are prescribed an exercise program, strive to be consistent with it and ask your physical therapist for advice along the way.
Regular exercise helps strengthen joint-supporting muscles and improves flexibility. Our physical therapists specialize in arthritis treatment and can suggest appropriate movements that provide a full range of motion. Physical activity also helps blood circulation through the body and around the joints, which helps bring oxygen and nutrients to help with the healing process. Also, did you know that losing 10 pounds of excess body weight takes roughly 30 to 60 pounds of pressure off the knee?
So talk to one of our therapists to get you moving in the right direction.