Arthritis is one of the leading causes of pain and disability worldwide, affecting people of all ages. Whether you’re dealing with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another type, physical therapy (PT) can be a powerful tool in managing your symptoms, improving mobility, and helping you live a fuller, more active life. Our licensed physical therapists create personalized treatment plans to help reduce your pain and increase your independence.
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints and includes over 100 different conditions. The most common types are:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): Degenerative joint disease typically caused by wear and tear
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks joint tissue
- Psoriatic Arthritis, Gout, and Others:Each with unique causes and symptoms
Regardless of type, arthritis often leads to stiffness, swelling, joint pain, and reduced function.
How Physical Therapy Helps Arthritis
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1. Pain Relief Through Movement
Movement is medicine. Our therapists use gentle, targeted exercises to help lubricate joints, reduce stiffness, and improve circulation—providing natural pain relief without medications. -
2. Joint Protection and Strengthening
Weak muscles can increase stress on joints. We help strengthen surrounding muscles to offload pressure from arthritic joints and improve stability. -
3. Improved Flexibility and Range of Motion
Arthritis often limits mobility. PT helps restore flexibility and maintain joint function with stretches, mobility drills, and manual therapy. -
4. Education on Joint-Sparing Techniques
We teach you how to move smarter—using proper posture and body mechanics—to avoid unnecessary joint strain in daily activities. -
5. Personalized Home Exercise Programs
You’ll receive a customized plan you can do at home to maintain progress and manage symptoms long term. -
6. Modalities for Pain Management
We may use heat, ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and pain during therapy sessions.
Common Conditions We Treat
- Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, or spine
- Rheumatoid arthritis in hands, feet, and other joints
- Shoulder arthritis (glenohumeral or AC joint)
- Post-joint replacement rehab
- Juvenile arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
Benefits of PT for Arthritis
- Decreased joint pain and stiffness
- Improved strength and mobility
- Better balance and coordination
- Greater independence in daily tasks
- Fewer medication side effects
- Prevention of further joint damage
