Arthritis Rehabilitation: A Comprehensive Guide to Physiotherapy

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to inflammation in one or more joints. It can strike people of all ages, but it is most commonly associated with aging. The two most prevalent forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

There are two types Arthritis:

Osteoarthritis (OA):

  • Causes: OA is often a result of wear and tear on the joints. Over time, the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones breaks down, leading to pain and stiffness.
  • Symptoms: Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, with a preference for affecting weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):

  • Causes: RA is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints.
  • Symptoms: RA leads to joint inflammation, pain, swelling, and can affect multiple joints throughout the body.

Physiotherapy for Arthritis Management:

Wax Therapy:

  • Pain Relief: The heat generated by the wax helps alleviate pain. It can ease muscle tension and joint discomfort, providing temporary relief from pain.
  • Improved Joint Mobility: Immersing the joint in the warm wax allows for gentle stretching and range of motion exercises during the treatment. 

Ultrasound Therapy (UST):

  • Improved Blood Flow: UST can increase blood flow to the targeted area. Improved circulation can aid in the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the affected joint.
  • Reduced Joint Stiffness: The heat from UST can help relax and loosen tissues around the affected joint, reducing joint stiffness.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS):

  • Muscle Relaxation: TENS can relax muscle tension around the affected joint, reducing pain and promoting better joint movement.
  • Improved Function: With pain reduction and muscle relaxation, individuals with arthritis can experience improved joint function, making it easier to perform daily activities

Cupping Therapy:

  • Relaxation: Cupping therapy can induce a state of relaxation, which may be beneficial for individuals experiencing pain and stress due to arthritis.
  • Increased Mobility: By relieving muscle tension and potentially reducing inflammation, cupping therapy might lead to improved joint mobility and flexibility.

Dry Needling:

  • Pain Reduction: Dry needling can help reduce pain associated with arthritis, particularly if muscle tension or trigger points  
  • Muscle Relaxation: By targeting specific areas of muscle tension, dry needling can promote muscle relaxation, which may improve joint function and mobility.

Conclusion:

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the comprehensive management of arthritis. Arthritis is a complex and often chronic condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, reduced joint function, and a significant impact on overall quality of life.

A team of Physiotherapists in Alexa Clinic under the guidance of Dr. Shipra Kumari, Chief Physiotherapist and certified Aquatic Therapist (IATF Switzerland). Alexa Clinic is a super-specialty physiotherapy and aquatic therapy clinic first of its kind opened in Kolkata in the in the year 2019. With many accolades and recognition Alexa Clinic has treated more than 10,000 patients suffering from various illnesses.

It’s easy to book an appointment with Dr. Shipra Kumari over a call or visit the 8777694040 websites of Alexa Healthcare.

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