The short answer is no. However, the main aim of physiotherapy is to keep you moving, helping to reduce joint stiffness and improve your range of movement; while keeping your muscle strong. While there is no overall cure for arthritis, physiotherapy can help reduce the symptoms and prevent it from getting worse.
How can a physiotherapist help arthritis?
A physiotherapist can help you be mobilised safely and effectively. They do this by developing an individual plan of exercises which will improve your flexibility, strength, coordination and balance. During the assessment, the physiotherapist will also:
- Teach you proper posture to help relieve pain and improve body function.
- Talk you through on how to properly use an assistive device such as a walker or cane.
- Suggest home and environment modifications; an ergonomic chair or perhaps a cushion on a chair.
- Assess your walking.
- Teach you how to use heat or ice aids for pain relief.
Arthritis is inflammation of the joints, and while there are 200 known types; the two most common are Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis.
– Osteoarthritis is a wear and tear within the joint(s), which gradually get worse over time.
– Rheumatoid is the body’s immune system attacking the joints. This is when the joints then become red and swollen if left untreated.
There are many myths on what causes arthritis, but often the answer is simple age-related wear and tear. Arthritis is a condition which doesn’t hide – the symptoms are very clear, and it can start from simple joint pain or inflammation around the joints (leaving redness and swelling).
If you think you might have arthritis or have troubles with your movement; then give HFS clinics a call, and our friendly team will answer any of your queries.