How Can Physiotherapy Help With Arthritis?
Millions of people all over the world suffer from the common condition known as arthritis, which causes joint pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. Physiotherapy can help manage symptoms and enhance quality of life even though there is no known cure for arthritis. We’ll discuss the various methods and exercises used in physiotherapy, the advantages of getting help from a physiotherapist, and how it can help with arthritis in this blog.
Types Of Arthritis
A general term for the inflammation of one or more joints that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling is arthritis. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, but the most prevalent ones are psoriatic, rheumatoid, and osteoarthritis.
Wear and tear on the joints is the main cause of osteoarthritis, which typically affects older adults. The lining of the joints becomes inflamed as a result of the autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis. People with psoriasis may also develop psoriatic arthritis, another autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints.
Physiotherapy can be an efficient treatment for all forms of arthritis, but different types of arthritis call for different approaches to treatment.
Benefits Of Physiotherapy For Arthritis
For those who have arthritis, physiotherapy can have a big impact. A physiotherapist can assist patients in controlling their symptoms and raising their quality of life by creating a customised treatment plan. Improved joint mobility, increased strength and endurance, and decreased pain and stiffness are some advantages of physiotherapy for arthritis.
Exercise therapy, manual therapy, and electrotherapy are just a few of the methods a physiotherapist may employ to achieve these advantages. Exercise therapy can help promote general fitness, strengthen the muscles around the affected joint, and improve joint flexibility. Massage and other forms of manual therapy that loosen stiff muscles and improve joint mobility are examples of manual therapy. Pain and inflammation can be lessened with electrotherapy techniques like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and ultrasound.
Physiotherapy can benefit arthritis sufferers emotionally and psychologically in addition to these physical advantages. Working with a physiotherapist can help patients better understand their condition and learn how to manage their symptoms, which can boost their confidence and give them a better sense of control over it.
In general, people with arthritis may find that physiotherapy is an effective treatment option. A physiotherapist can assist patients in managing their symptoms, restoring physical function, and enhancing their general well-being by creating a customised treatment plan.
Techniques Used In Physiotherapy For Arthritis
Physiotherapy can offer a range of techniques to help manage the symptoms of arthritis. One of the most common techniques is exercise therapy, which aims to improve mobility, strength, and flexibility. Physiotherapists will often prescribe specific exercises tailored to the individual’s needs, which can help to alleviate pain and increase range of motion.
Manual therapy is another technique used in physiotherapy for arthritis. This involves hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation and manipulation, massage, and stretching. These techniques can help to reduce pain and stiffness and improve joint mobility.
Electrotherapy may also be used, including ultrasound, laser therapy, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). These therapies work by using electrical or sound waves to stimulate the affected area, reducing pain and swelling.
Finally, education and advice are important components of physiotherapy for arthritis. Physiotherapists can provide information on how to manage pain, avoid aggravating activities, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. They can also recommend assistive devices such as braces, splints, and walking aids to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
When To Consult A Physiotherapist
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of arthritis, it’s important to consult a physiotherapist. They can help you determine the type of arthritis you have, as well as the severity of your symptoms. In general, you should consider consulting a physiotherapist if you experience any of the following:
- Pain and stiffness that lasts for more than a few weeks
- Pain and stiffness that affects your ability to carry out daily activities
- Joint swelling or redness
- A limited range of motion in your joints
- Muscle weakness or imbalance
By consulting a physiotherapist early on, you can receive a proper diagnosis and start a treatment plan that can help you manage your symptoms and maintain your quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment for arthritis, providing relief from pain and stiffness, improving joint mobility and function, and helping patients to manage their symptoms more effectively. If you or a loved one is struggling with arthritis, it may be time to consult with a qualified physiotherapist.
At Upwell Health Collective, our team of experienced physiotherapists is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help patients achieve optimal health and wellbeing. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free life with arthritis.
Please get in touch with us at Upwell Health at (03) 8849 9096 or book an appointment today.