Arthritis is defined by joint inflammation. There are two types of arthritis including Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. They can both be painful and uncomfortable, cause limitations in your lifestyle, and greatly impact your daily function. Physical and Occupational Therapy can help with both conditions.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis also referred to as Degenerative Joint Disease, is the most common form of arthritis and can occur at one or multiple joints throughout your body. A joint is where two bones meet. Our bones are covered by cartilage which provides a cushion so that our bones do not rub against each other. Osteoarthritis occurs due to the breakdown of this protective cartilage that cushions the end of your bones within your joints. This breakdown or wear can occur over time or more rapidly in some individuals that have had injuries, surgeries, or procedures within the joint, or have various medical conditions, including but not limited to, an autoimmune disease. When the cartilage wears, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and dysfunction.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis, RA, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects multiple joints throughout your body. It is an autoimmune condition where your immune system targets and attacks joint linings or synovium causing inflammation, pain, and dysfunction. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect other organs and systems throughout your body, in addition to your joints.
Activity is extremely important for those who have been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis however, sometimes activity and movement may feel impossible due to the pain, discomfort, and swelling you are experiencing.
If you have Arthritis, Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy can help you.
Your Physical Therapist can help you: *Reduce pain *Reduce swelling and stiffness *Improve range of motion *Increase strength *Slow down the degenerative process *Control your symptoms *Improve your endurance *Increase your activity level *Improve your overall daily function *Prevent injuries *Regain your independence *Reach your highest potential | Your Occupational Therapist can help you: *Optimize your participation in activities of daily living *Regain and develop skills to actively participate in self-care tasks *Modify your home through the appropriate use of equipment *Encourage community reintegration *Remediate barriers to your performance *Maximize your performance through therapeutic activities *Regain your Independence *Reach your highest potential |
