Discover Non-Surgical Arthritis Pain Management Techniques With Physical Therapy
Do you wake up with a nagging ache in your shoulder, hips, wrists, or hands? Have everyday tasks like reaching for a high shelf or walking up and down the stairs become too painful to try? If so, you may have arthritis, which is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. At Nebraska Orthopaedic Physical Therapy, Physical therapy offers non-surgical arthritis pain management strategies so you can regain control and get back to your favorite activities feeling stronger and better than ever.
Let’s learn about the types, causes, and risk factors for arthritis and how physical therapy can help you manage arthritis pain.
Pain Management Strategies For A Variety of Causes
When left untreated, arthritis can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and lower quality of life. While surgery isn’t the preferred or necessary option for many, the need for pain and symptom management is nearly universal. Fortunately, non-surgical arthritis pain management with physical therapy provides several effective alternatives to help improve patients’ quality of life.
It’s important to understand the various causes of arthritis in order to fully treat the condition.
Wear And Tear
- The protective cartilage within the joint can gradually wear down over time due to repetitive use, injury, or simply the natural aging process.
Injury
- Past injuries, like fractures or dislocations, can increase the risk of developing arthritis. Even minor injuries, if not properly treated, can lead to long-term joint damage.
Age
- The risk of arthritis naturally increases as we age due to cumulative wear and tear on the joints. However, arthritis can affect people of all ages, including younger individuals with a history of injury or underlying conditions.
Genetics
- Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing arthritis, making them more susceptible. This doesn’t guarantee that they will develop arthritis, but it increases their risk compared to the general population.
Obesity
- Excess weight puts additional stress on joints.
Joint misalignment
- Structural abnormalities in joints can contribute to the condition.
Non-Surgical Arthritis Pain Management Techniques
Non-surgical arthritis pain management with physical therapy isn’t just about pain relief; it’s about restoring function, improving strength, and enhancing your overall quality of life. In your physical therapy sessions, you can expect a tailored approach that includes:
Manual Therapy
- Hands-on techniques like joint mobilization and soft tissue manipulation to reduce pain and stiffness and improve joint mobility. Our therapists are trained in a variety of manual therapy techniques to address your specific needs.
Improve Joint Function
- Carefully selected exercises designed to improve joint range of motion and overall mobility.
Strengthening Exercises
- Building the muscles around the affected joint helps to support effective movement and reduce stress on the cartilage.
Patient Education
- Empowering you with knowledge about your condition, postural awareness, and home exercises to continue your progress between therapy sessions. Our goal is to equip you with the comprehensive tools and information you need for effective arthritis management.
Non-Surgical Arthritis Pain Management With Nebraska Orthopaedic Physical Therapy
Living with arthritis can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to control your life. By partnering with our skilled physical therapists, you can develop a personalized arthritis management plan that empowers you to move better, feel better, and live better.
Call us today to get started!
