Arthritis Rehabilitation
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in one or more joints, leading to reduced mobility and function. Arthritis rehabilitation is a specialized form of treatment(s) aimed at helping individuals with arthritis manage their symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance their overall quality of life. The physical therapists at Central Virginia Physical Therapy have the experience and expertise necessary to address the various forms of the disease and to provide patients with the best treatment and functional outcome.
How Can PT help?
Pain Management: Implementing techniques and exercises to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joint(s).
Joint Mobility: Working on exercises and stretches to improve the range of motion and flexibility of the affected joint(s).
Strengthening: Developing targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected joints providing support and stability.
Functional Training: Focusing on activities that mimic real-life movements to improve the ability to perform daily tasks with less pain and difficulty.
Education: Providing guidance on arthritis management strategies, lifestyle modifications and self-care techniques
Manual Therapy: Hands-on care including stretching, joint mobilization and soft-tissue work to improve mobility and help modulate pain.
Therapeutic Exercises: A series of activities formulated for each patient specifically. These include stretches and strengthening exercises to regain range of motion and stabilize the affected joint(s) with the goal of decreasing stresses placed on inflamed joint cartilage.
Neuromuscular Re-education: Focusing on stability, retraining the affected extremity and improving movement techniques and mechanics. Gait and balance training is important for individuals who have lower extremity involvement.
Modalities: The use of electrical stimulation, ultrasound, dry needling, ice, heat and others to decrease pain and inflammation of the involved joint.
