Arthritis

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Understanding Arthritis

Arthritis is a debilitating disease that affects over 54 million Americans, making it the most common disability in the country. This condition often makes it difficult for individuals to perform daily activities without experiencing pain, which tends to increase over time. If you’re living with arthritis, a physical therapist at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center Geneva can help you reduce arthritis pain and enhance your mobility. Call our office today for a consultation.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a disease that causes stiffness and inflammation in the joints and can affect men, women, and children. A physician usually makes an official diagnosis by examining your joints, taking a complete medical history, and ordering urinalysis and blood panel tests. Common symptoms of arthritis include:

  • Redness and swelling
  • Limited joint function
  • Loss of cartilage
  • Bone growth, especially in the fingers
  • Fatigue, fever, and weight loss

Causes of Arthritis

There are two general types of arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

  • Osteoarthritis is the most common type, characterized by damage to the cartilage in joints. It's often referred to as degenerative arthritis.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joint lining, known as inflammatory arthritis.

Other types include infectious and metabolic arthritis. Causes and risk factors for arthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic, include:

  • Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Age: The likelihood of joint inflammation increases with age.
  • Obesity: Excess weight stresses joints, particularly in the spine, hips, and knees.
  • Previous Injuries: Prior joint injuries can lead to inflammation in that area.

Common Questions About Arthritis

Do I Have Arthritis? If you experience joint pain, stiffness, swelling, or limited movement, you may have arthritis. It’s essential to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider, who will conduct a thorough examination and possibly order tests to determine if arthritis is the cause of your symptoms.

Will I Get Any Help for My Arthritis? Yes, at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center Geneva, we offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your specific condition. Our goal is to help you manage your arthritis symptoms, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life.

Can Physical Therapy Help My Arthritis? Absolutely. Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for managing arthritis. Our skilled physical therapists will create a personalized exercise and treatment program to help you regain strength, improve joint function, and enhance your mobility.

How Physical Therapy Helps Arthritis

While there is no cure for arthritis, physical therapy can provide long-term relief from pain and improve your quality of life. At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center Geneva, our skilled physical therapists develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and health goals. Here’s how physical therapy can help:

  • Exercise Programs: Tailored exercises to improve strength, mobility, and joint function.
  • Posture Correction: Techniques to protect joints and improve posture.
  • Pain Management: Thermal treatments, heat and ice therapy to relieve pain and relax muscles.
  • Joint Protection: Methods to prevent further joint damage and enhance mobility.

It’s essential to start treatment as soon as possible for the best outcomes. Consistently following your therapist’s instructions and practicing exercises at home is crucial for long-term relief.

Get Relief from Arthritis at FYZICAL Geneva

Don't let chronic pain and stiffness affect your daily life. Our physical therapy team at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center Geneva is dedicated to helping you manage arthritis symptoms and regain your daily routine. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey to pain relief.

Your Next Steps

  1. Schedule a Consultation: Contact FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center Geneva to set up an initial evaluation with one of our experienced physical therapists. This consultation will help determine the best course of action for your arthritis treatment.

  2. Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your evaluation, our therapists will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

  3. Begin Your Therapy: Start your physical therapy sessions and follow your therapist's guidance. Consistently practice prescribed exercises at home for optimal results.

  4. Monitor Progress: Regularly assess your progress with your therapist and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure continued improvement and relief from arthritis symptoms.

  5. Maintain an Active Lifestyle: Continue with recommended exercises and lifestyle modifications to manage arthritis and maintain joint health.