Physical Therapy (PT) for arthritic symptoms enhances long term movement quality and eases painful and limiting symptoms. Everyday movements become easier to perform and wear and tear on your joints are reduced.
Physical Therapy Treatment Plan for Arthritis can include:
• certain medications
• various supplements
• a variety of topical treatments
The physical therapist evaluates your muscle imbalances, body mechanics, and posture. Then, they can show you how to improve your movements to align your body, reduce pain, and prevent injuries.
Stretching is essential in the treatment plan. The physical therapist will customize a plan of exercise, including stretching, that will help you to:
• alleviate your pain
• improve your range of motion
• correct your patterns of movement
The treatment plan focuses on strengthening the muscles around the affected joints, which improves function and reduces stress on the joint.
Also, PT helps people with arthritis to:
• devise a workout routine for you to implement at home
• increase your fitness level overall
• improve your endurance
• decrease stiffness
• alleviate fatigue
• increase stability and balance
• improve your coordination
Are there any Current Studies?
Research in 2020 found that for patients with a common type of arthritis, called osteoarthritis of the knee, physical therapy was far more effective than intraarticular steroid injections in reducing functional disability and pain.
A small 2020 study, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Trusted Source, suggests that maintaining a consistent exercise routine improves the symptoms of another form of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis. Adhering to a customized exercise program is an effective and safe way to boost cardio fitness, improve cognition, and decrease fatigue. Body composition overall is affected positively.
Some of the arthritis treatment plans included by the physical therapist include:
- weight machines
- aerobic exercise machines
Other equipment, such as:
- foam rollers
- exercises balls
- resistance bands
Physical therapists can recommend other assistive devices and passive physical therapy treatments such as massage, joint mobilizations, and electrotherapy to help promote relaxation.
Can PT worsen my Arthritis?
The overall goal of PT is to decrease arthritis symptoms and improve function. Treatments should not cause pain or make your symptoms worse.
However, some exercises may be challenging when you begin. It is customary that during or after a PT session, you may experience some soreness or muscular discomfort.
You can discuss your pain response and tolerance with your physical therapist. Let them know if your pain is severe, your symptoms are worse, or any other problems during or after your treatment.
The physical therapist can make modifications that are appropriate for you
Is PT for arthritis covered by insurance or Medicare?
Most insurance plans cover part of physical therapy costs when considered “medically necessary.”
The insurer may have a limit to the number of visits your insurance will cover. If your doctor deems that PT for arthritis is medically necessary, Medicare will cover all or part of the costs.
According to AARP, Medicare Part A will pay all or some of the costs of physical therapy treatments at an inpatient rehabilitation facility, such as a hospital, rehabilitation center, or mental health facility.
Medicare Part B will pay the remaining 80 percent of treatment costs for outpatient treatment once you meet your yearly Part B deductible.
Living with Arthritis Pain
Arthritis is considered to be a chronic condition that affects a patient’s mental health and physical well-being. It involves the overall quality of life for many. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Trusted Source, many patients with arthritis suffer from depression and anxiety. Talk with your physical therapist or physician to learn about any available support groups.
Takeaway
A physical therapy treatment plan positively impacts the symptoms of arthritis. There are many treatment options. Physical therapy is an important part of your treatment and will make you move better and see improvement in your overall well-being. Keep up with your daily activities and exercises as much as possible for the best results.
Keep a record of which treatments are most effective. Keep your appointment, and remember to check in with your physical therapist. You should discuss your concerns and progress and any changes (positive or negative) in your condition.
Physical Therapy for Your Condition
Physical Therapists can help improve or restore the mobility you need to move forward in your life. If you are looking for a possible alternative to surgery, joint replacements, shots, and/or medications, consider Synergy as your solution.
