Arthritis is a common condition which causes pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced strength and mobility. Arthritis affects everyone differently in the way that it presents symptom wise and how it reacts to treatment. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, so diagnosis of which specific one can either be done quickly and easily in cases such as Osteoarthritis or it can be complex e.g. rheumatoid, psoriasis and ankylosing spondylitis. Although debilitating, arthritis should not stop you from enjoying life and if arthritis is stopping you from enjoying yourself then it might be time to book in and see a physiotherapist who can assess, diagnose and help you manage and improve the symptoms of whatever problem you may have with arthritis. There are several ways in which a physiotherapist can help you with the symptoms of arthritis. The most common ways in which a physio can help is through treatment methods such as acupuncture, massage and exercise.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture works in that small needles are placed in specific points throughout the body depending on the area being worked on. These small needles work at three different levels, they work to have a local effect in that it will help stimulate the healing process around where the needles are placed through improved circulation. The needles also work on a segmental level in that it will help to reduce pain around the area in which they are placed, meaning that the pain relieving properties are carried along the adjacent nerves. Acupuncture also has an effect on the brain which stimulates the release of endorphins and serotonin (feel good chemicals). This works to help reduce the pain and stiffness caused by arthritis which can help you get better.
Massage
Massage can be beneficial to help increase lymphatic drainage (fluid) around swollen joints, it has been shown to help decrease stiffness and to help improve pain and mobility levels.
Exercise
Exercise is the most studied modality used when it comes to all kinds of injuries including the many types of arthritis. It has been shown time and time again its benefits of improving strength, swelling, pain, stiffness and mobility. It can be odd at first when you are in pain and are stiff to exercise but exercise helps to improve blood circulation, improve stiffness by helping to move the lubricating fluid within your joints, it will help to promote feelings of well being and satisfaction in that you’ve been able to exercise despite having issues with your joints. Exercise needs to be managed properly however in order to get the most benefits from them. This is where speaking to a qualified physiotherapist will help in advising you on the right path to take exercise wise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, seeing a physiotherapist should be one of your first things to do when you have arthritis or have the symptoms of arthritis of any kind. We are able to help manage your symptoms and allow you to enjoy life again.
