Arthritis is a broad term encompassing over 100 different types of joint diseases and conditions that cause inflammation and pain in the joints. The most common forms are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 54 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with arthritis, making it a leading cause of disability.
Arthritis can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults. It leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion, severely impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. At Atrium Physical Therapy in Edina and Eden Prairie, we specialize in providing personalized care to help you manage arthritis effectively and improve your joint health.
Contact Atrium Physical Therapy today at 612-284-2450 to schedule your consultation and start your journey to effective arthritis management.
Understanding the common causes and risk factors of arthritis can help in developing an effective treatment plan. Here are some prevalent causes and contributing factors:
OA is the most common type of arthritis, often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint. OA is more common in older adults and those with a history of joint injuries.
RA is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage. RA can affect individuals of any age, but it is more common in women and usually starts in middle age.
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness. It often affects the big toe but can occur in other joints as well. Gout is more common in men and those with a diet high in purines.
This type of arthritis affects some people with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. Psoriatic arthritis can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and it can affect any part of the body, including the fingertips and spine.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and damage to various body systems, including the joints. It can lead to arthritis-like symptoms such as joint pain and swelling.
Some bacterial and viral infections can trigger arthritis by directly infecting the joint or causing a reaction in the body that leads to joint inflammation.
A family history of arthritis can increase your risk of developing the condition. Certain genes are associated with a higher likelihood of developing specific types of arthritis.
Excess weight can put additional stress on weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips, increasing the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Each type of arthritis requires a specific approach to treatment. At Atrium Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists design individualized treatment plans based on the nature of your condition and your personal recovery goals.
At Atrium Physical Therapy, we provide comprehensive rehabilitation services tailored to address the unique needs of arthritis patients. Our approach includes:
We start with a detailed assessment of your condition, medical history, and personal goals. This evaluation helps us understand your specific needs and develop a customized rehabilitation plan. Our therapists assess the extent of joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and overall function to establish a baseline for your treatment.
Based on the evaluation, we create a tailored treatment plan that includes various physical therapy techniques to manage arthritis effectively. This plan may include manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, joint protection strategies, and education on lifestyle modifications.
Manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilization and soft tissue massage, can help improve joint function, reduce pain, and enhance mobility. These techniques aim to alleviate stiffness and increase the range of motion in the affected joints.
Specific exercises are designed to strengthen the muscles around the affected joints, improve flexibility, and enhance overall joint stability. These exercises help reduce pain, prevent further joint damage, and improve overall function.
We provide education on joint protection techniques to help minimize stress on your joints during daily activities. This includes guidance on proper body mechanics, using assistive devices, and making ergonomic adjustments in your environment.
We offer advice on lifestyle changes that can help manage arthritis symptoms, such as weight management, dietary modifications, and stress reduction techniques. These changes can significantly impact your overall joint health and well-being.
Our goal is to support you through every stage of managing your arthritis, from initial assessment to achieving optimal control of your condition. At Atrium Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life and maintain effective arthritis management.
Contact Atrium Physical Therapy today at 612-284-2450 to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a pain-free life.