Physical Therapy for
Arthritis
Arthritis is usually categorized as either Osteoarthritis (OA) or Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). RA is a connective tissue disease. As with other connective tissue diseases, onset and progression vary greatly with periods of exacerbation (flares) and remissions. Joint inflammation during flares actually erodes the protective cartilage away, causing significant pain, loss of movement and mobility.
OA is also commonly referred to as degenerative joint disease (DJD). It is a chronic and progressive degeneration of the joints in our body, often causing bony spurs or "lipping" at the joint surface. The cartilage that protects the joint surface wears away over time from either excessive major stresses or repetitive minor stresses. Pain limits active movement, which causes muscle weakness, contracture and increased pain.
Treatment for both conditions include posture and body mechanics training, joint protection principles, energy conservation techniques, supportive or corrective devices or bracing, pain management and gentle stretching and strengthening techniques. It is important to remember that treatment varies depending on whether you are in a flare (or have acute inflammation) or a remission period. Careful coordination with your physical therapist is important to prevent exacerbation of these conditions.
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