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How Physiotherapy for Arthritis Can Help Relieve Pain and Restore Mobility

October 25, 2023
How Physiotherapy for Arthritis Can Help Relieve Pain and Restore Mobility

Arthritis affects millions worldwide and may significantly restrict their everyday lives by producing pain, stiffness, and decreased movement. Physiotherapy is a valuable alternative or complement to medication and surgery in arthritis treatment. It can effectively alleviate pain and enhance joint function. This article will examine the many forms of arthritis and how physiotherapy may help with knee and hip arthritis.

Understanding Different Types of Arthritis

People erroneously link this disease to older individuals, but it can afflict individuals of any age, including children.

There are different types of arthritis, and some of the more common ones include:

  • Osteoarthritis: This form of arthritis is most prevalent in the population. It happens when the cartilage that protects bones wears away over time.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: The lining of the joints called synovial is attacked by the immune system in Rheumatoid Arthritis.
  • Psoriatic arthritis: Joint pain and stiffness along with inflammation are caused by psoriasis arthritis.
  • Gout: Gout occurs due to the build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints leading to abrupt and intense pain accompanied by inflammation.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Arthritis Pain Relief

Arthritis sufferers can find relief and better movement through the use of physiotherapy. Here are some of the benefits of physiotherapy for arthritis:

  • Pain Relief: Physiotherapy can help reduce arthritis pain without the need for medication or surgery.
  • Improved Mobility: Physiotherapy can help increase your range of motion and flexibility.
  • Reduced Need for Medication: By improving joint health and reducing pain, physiotherapy can help reduce the need for pain medication or other medications used to manage arthritis.
  • Holistic Approach: Physiotherapy addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of arthritis, providing a holistic approach to treatment.

How Physiotherapy Helps in Managing Knee Arthritis

Swelling, accompanied by stiffness and pain, is commonly experienced by those suffering from knee arthritis. Performing everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs can become challenging. By improving joint mobility and reducing pain levels, physiotherapy can help in the management of knee arthritis.

Exercises for Knee Arthritis

In physiotherapy, different exercises specially designed to strengthen the muscles can help manage knee arthritis. A tailored exercise programme based on the specific requirements and objectives of every individual can be created by a physiotherapist.

  • Stretching: Gentle stretches can help improve joint flexibility and reduce pain. A physio for knee arthritis can show you stretches to perform at home or during your physiotherapy sessions.
  • Strengthening: Pain and stiffness may occur due to weak muscles putting excessive pressure on the knee joint. Improving joint stability and reducing pain is possible with exercises that target the muscles around the knee.
  • Aerobic exercise: Cardiovascular fitness can be improved and stress on the knee joint reduced by engaging in activities like walking or swimming which are considered as aerobic exercises.

Effective Physiotherapy Techniques for Hip Arthritis

Hip arthritis, a common condition, frequently results in painful, stiff hips with limited mobility. Managing symptoms and improving the quality of life are possible with the help of a physio for hip arthritis.

  • Manual Therapy Techniques: Incorporating manual therapy into physiotherapy treatment plans for those with hip arthritis has proven beneficial by reducing pain and improving joint range of motion.
  • Exercise Therapy: Joint mobility can be improved along with reduced pain by regularly participating in exercise therapy to build strength.

Conclusion

Arthritis is an expansive term employed to classify over many distinct ailments that impact joints and result in discomfort and rigidity. It is a common belief that arthritis strikes only the old because this disease can also easily target the youth. Physiotherapists can help with targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques to address particular muscle groups and joints. Doing so can enhance joint flexibility, alleviate discomfort, and forestall additional harm.

If you want to know more, feel free to get in touch with us by calling 0208 3686767 or emailing us at info@southgatephysio.co.uk

Physiotherapy Services We Offer

Our clinic offers a wide range of treatments that are all recommended and tailored to everyone who comes and visits us. Our range of treatments complements the body and mind, helping to keep you pain and injury-free, delivering preventative measures to maintain your well-being and enhance your performance levels.

Our main aim is to restore your personal well-being so you can enjoy an active, healthy, and pain-free life. Click on any of the services to find out a little more about each treatment and understand if it might be right for you.

Simply Contact Us or give one of our physiotherapists a call on 02083686767 or email us on Info@southgatephysio.co.uk to book a physiotherapy appointment.

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