Are you struggling with persistent joint pain and arthritis? You’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 54 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with this chronic condition.
Joint pain and arthritis can significantly impact your daily activities, making simple tasks like walking or getting dressed a challenge. While there are various treatment options available, seeking help from a physical therapist may provide relief and improve your quality of life.
In this blog, we will explore when it’s essential to see a physical therapist near you for joint pain and arthritis management.
What is Joint Pain?
Joint pain is discomfort in any joint – the place where two bones meet. This pain can be mild or severe, and it might come and go. Common causes include wear and tear, injuries, or inflammation.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a long-term joint condition that causes joint pain and stiffness. There are over 100 types of this chronic condition, but the most common ones are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage between joints wears down, resulting in bone-on-bone rubbing and inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the lining of the joints and causes body-wide inflammation during flare-ups.
Recognizing Signs That It’s Time to See a Physical Therapist
Persistent Pain
If you’ve been experiencing joint pain for more than a few weeks, it’s time to consider seeing a physical therapist near you. Persistent pain is a sign that something isn’t right, and a professional can help identify the cause and recommend treatment.
Limited Mobility
Struggling to move your joints as freely as you used to? A physical therapist can assess your range of motion and create an exercise plan to improve it, helping you regain your ability to perform everyday tasks.
Swelling and Stiffness
Swelling and stiffness in your joints are common symptoms of arthritis and other joint issues. If these symptoms persist, a physical therapist can help reduce inflammation and improve joint function through targeted exercises and therapies.
After Surgery
If you’ve had surgery for arthritis or joint pain, physical therapy is crucial for recovery. A physical therapist can help you regain strength and mobility, ensuring a smooth recovery.
The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Joint Pain and Arthritis
Custom Treatment Plans
When you visit a physical therapist, they will create a custom plan for you. They will use their knowledge to select exercises and therapies that focus on your pain and help your joints feel better.
Pain Relief
Physical therapists have many ways to help you feel less pain. They might use hands-on therapy, hot and cold therapies, or specially selected exercises. These can lower pain and swelling, making it easier for you to move and do everyday tasks.
Better Movement and Strength
Going to physical therapy regularly can help you move your joints more easily and make the muscles around your joints stronger. This not only makes the pain go away but also helps stop future joint problems.
What to Expect During Your First Visit to a Physical Therapist
Initial Assessment
When you visit a physical therapist for the first time, they will start by asking you some questions. They will want to know about your medical history, including any past injuries or surgeries you’ve had.
They’ll also ask about what hurts or bothers you now and if you’ve tried other treatments before.
Physical Examination
Next, the therapist will do a physical examination and assess how your body moves. They’ll check how your joints move, how strong your muscles are, and how well you can do certain actions.
This helps them figure out why you’re feeling pain and what might be causing it.
Treatment Plan Development
After the assessment and examination, the physical therapist will come up with a treatment plan just for you that could include different exercises to help you get stronger or more flexible.
They might also use manual therapy, which is when they use their hands to help your muscles and joints feel better. The goal is to create a plan that suits your specific needs and helps you feel better.
Physical Therapists in North Dakota
If you’re tired of living with joint pain or arthritis, don’t wait any longer to seek help. At The Bone & Joint Center, our experienced orthopedic specialists and physical therapists are dedicated to providing tailored treatment plans that address your unique needs.
We offer a wide range of services, including physical therapy and joint replacement, to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.
Contact us today at (701) 946-7400 / (866) 900-8650 or visit our appointment request page to set up a consultation. We look forward to serving you!
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