Arthritis is a broad term that encompasses over 100 different types of joint pain and disease. Many people believe that arthritis only affects the elderly, but this is not true.
According to Healthline, “arthritic symptoms usually develop over time, but they can also appear suddenly.” Arthritis is most common in people over the age of 65, but it can also affect children, teenagers, and younger adults. Arthritis affects more women than men and people who are overweight.”
According to a study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, approximately 30% of male athletes who regularly participate in contact sports such as football, basketball, or soccer will develop knee and hip arthritis at some point.
Many people try to relieve their pain with over-the-counter medications, but they can have unpleasant, long-term side effects. Don’t worry, physiotherapy is a great option if you want a natural and safe treatment for arthritis pain! Contact Newcastle Physiotherapy today to learn how you can stop taking pain relievers while also alleviating your arthritis pain.
Do you have one of these types of arthritis?
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. This particular condition is caused by a reduction in joint cartilage as it wears away over time. This degeneration causes bones to rub together, which leads to pain and swelling. Physiotherapy can often help to reduce osteoarthritis pain without medication, especially if the arthritis is mild to moderate.
- Inflammatory Arthritis: With some cases of arthritis, the body’s immune system will attack joint tissues and cause intense inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis is one example of this type of condition. Inflammatory arthritis often stems from a genetic cause, and it is usually treated with heavy doses of drugs and over-the-counter medications. However, depending on the severity of symptoms, physiotherapy may be recommended for treatment as well.
- Metabolic Arthritis: This kind of arthritis is typically caused by reduced kidney function. The most common type of metabolic arthritis is gout, a condition caused by uric acid crystals building up in the joints of the extremities, especially the feet. Physiotherapy can help gout patients restore range of motion in the affected area and even reduce the buildup of the acidic crystals that accumulate in the joints.
How can physiotherapy help treat arthritis?
You don’t have to suffer from painful arthritis symptoms. A physiotherapist can help if you have arthritis in your hands, knees, or feet, or if it is caused by age or sports.
Keep in mind that each treatment regimen is unique based on the patient’s needs and the type of arthritis they have. To begin med-free care with physiotherapy, simply call and make an appointment with one of our therapists.
We will assess your condition, determine the source of your discomfort, ask you some health-related questions, and develop a personalized care plan for you and your needs.
What should I anticipate from physiotherapy treatments?
Physiotherapy is a completely safe, natural, and effective method of pain relief. Your physiotherapist will be properly trained and licensed to handle your condition.
The ultimate goals of working with a physiotherapist to manage arthritis pain will include preserving or restoring your normal range of motion, increasing muscle strength to reduce stress on the joints, and exploring other natural treatment options.
The following are some of the advantages of working with our physiotherapists:
- Improved posture: A physiotherapist can help you to improve your posture, which will also help to reduce stress on your joints. Sitting and standing up straight does wonders for your pain!
- Weight control: Your physiotherapist will work with you to control your weight through exercise and diet. Watching your weight prevents added stress on your joints, which is a leading cause of arthritis symptoms.
- Better sleep schedule: Your physiotherapist will also recommend setting a solid schedule for rest and sleep to complement your exercises. Resting helps the body to heal faster and decrease arthritis inflammation and pain.
- Learn new exercises and stretches: Physiotherapy treatment typically includes light exercises and stretching to help restore and increase range of motion in the affected painful areas.
The risks of anti-arthritic medications
It is common for doctors to prescribe NSAID pain relievers such as Advil, ibuprofen, antibiotics, corticosteroids, or antirheumatic medications to arthritis patients. While they can all provide immediate pain relief, they all carry the risk of side effects, some of which can be severe.
NSAIDs can raise your chances of getting a blood clot, having a stroke, or having a heart attack. Corticosteroids aren’t much better; they cause high blood sugar, cataracts, and even bone loss, which is the last thing an arthritis patient wants!
Ready to find relief? Contact Newcastle Physiotherapy today
Say goodbye to harmful medication. Contact our office today to get on the road to recovery from arthritis pain!
