What Causes Arthritis?Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints, and there are several types, each with its own causes and characteristics.
At Cypress Physical Therapy, we specialize in addressing arthritis, leveraging our expertise to provide targeted solutions. If you are experiencing any of the following, it may be time to seek our support:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): This is the most common type of arthritis and occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. It is often associated with aging, joint overuse, obesity, and joint injuries.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium (the lining of the membranes that surround the joints), causing inflammation and joint damage. The exact cause is unknown, but genetic and environmental factors may play a role.
- Psoriatic arthritis: Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. It can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, often affecting the fingers, toes, and spine.
- Ankylosing spondylitis: Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and fusion of the vertebrae. It typically starts in the lower back and can progress to involve other joints.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA): JIA is a type of arthritis that occurs in children under the age of 16. It is characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness, and its exact cause is unknown.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing arthritis by addressing pain, improving joint function, and enhancing overall quality of life. Treatment approaches may include:
01
Exercise Therapy
Prescribing individualized exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion of affected joints. This can help reduce pain, increase joint stability, and improve function.
02
Joint Protection Techniques
Teaching strategies to minimize stress on affected joints during daily activities, such as proper body mechanics, joint-friendly movement patterns, and the use of assistive devices.
03
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, and massage to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and alleviate muscle tension.
04
Education and self-management
Providing information about arthritis, including lifestyle modifications, ergonomic principles, energy conservation techniques, and joint protection strategies.
05
Modalities
Using adjunctive modalities such as heat, cold, electrical stimulation, or ultrasound to provide pain relief, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing.
Our philosophy revolves around being leaders in rehabilitation. We are dedicated to helping you reclaim a pain-free life, enabling you to return to the activities you love. Don't let back pain limit you – let us guide you on the path to a healthier, more active you.