It is common for patients with arthritis or joint stiffness to avoid activity relating to their pain, but this view actually makes the stiffness become worse. Proper movements and activities help strengthen joints, reduce stiffness, and improve painful symptoms.
Southwest Spine and Pain Center has seen all too often how arthritis can make simple things in life a much more difficult task. The mission behind physical therapy is to get patients to a point where they can take part in these daily activities and live a normal lifestyle. Physical therapy also educates patients in certain exercises that will improve their condition, the right form to carry out normal activities, and even the specifics of what is going on within their joint.
Among the many benefits of physical therapy, there are some key essentials. Stretching, exercises, and recovery techniques are all ways that therapy can help patients in their journey to a better life. Some key pillars for each of these are:
- Correct ways to sleep
- General stretches to take part in everyday
- Specific exercises pertaining to your condition
- Thermal modalities like ice or heating packs that help reduce inflammation or relax muscles for recovery
Some joint protection methods may also be implemented into therapy. Balance of weight on certain joints, posture, energy conservation, and awareness of limits can all be extremely beneficial in the life of an arthritis sufferer’s lifestyle.
In some cases, assisted devices may be necessary to avoid further stress and stiffness of the joints. It is important to avoid standing for long periods of time and when possible, sit down when doing an activity.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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