Osteoarthritis Rehabilitation
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is characterized by damage to cartilage and bone. Cartilage is the shock absorbing cushioning that protects the bones in the joints. This loss of cartilage is usually gradual. It can be hereditary, caused by injury, and/or wear and tear. This allows bone to rub against bone creating pain and stiffness. The result is often loss of range of motion and or weakness of the muscles around the joint due to lack of exercise. This can make even the simplest task a chore. Although osteoarthritis can create challenges in the activities of daily living, the good news is that there are ways to meet these challenges and lead a fulfilling life.
- Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis; with age many people will develop osteoarthritis to some degree.
- Osteoarthritis most commonly affects the small joints of the hands or feet and the larger weight bearing joints such as the knees, hips and spine.
- Up to age 45, osteoarthritis is more common in men than women. After that age, it is more common in women.
- Contributing factors may be heredity, aging, previous joint damage or overuse, obesity, infection or joints affected by another type of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
The diagnosis of osteoarthritis is usually made based on a patient's medical history and a careful physical examination. The physician may order additional testing to confirm the diagnosis or rule out similar or contributory diseases. X-Rays may be needed to evaluate possible narrowing of the joint spaces and or changes (such as spurs) at the joint surfaces.
Your physician will be able to design a treatment program especially for you. It may include medication as well as physical therapy. Our therapy centers have developed a multifaceted approach to aid in the treatment of all stages of osteoarthritis. This includes patient education to protect the involved joints as well as a customized therapeutic exercise program. Your therapy team will base your program on the severity of the disease, which joints are affected, symptoms, medical history, age and usual activities of daily living. Your therapy team will work in partnership with your physician to ensure that your program allows you to maintain the highest level of function and independence.
- Learn as much as you can about osteoarthritis, its management and expectations for your future.
- Understand that there may be tasks that you can no longer perform the way you used to. Learn better ways to accomplish the same goals and discover new activities you can enjoy.
- Learn to be flexible planning alternatives for your "good" and "bad" days.
- Think positively. Osteoarthritis does not go away, but you can learn to manage your symptoms.
- Perform regular exercises advised by your therapists. This will allow you to reduce pain, improve function and develop stronger muscles for more stable joints.
- Utilize good body mechanics as instructed by your therapists. This will allow you to accomplish your daily activities with less stress on your joints, resulting in less pain.
- Control your weight. Extra pounds increase the stress on your joints.
- Balance rest and activity, being careful not to overdo. To best manage your symptoms; pace yourself, take breaks and respect the pain.
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