If you are facing problems while climbing stairs, playing sports or simply while walking then it may be a sign of arthritis. In this condition, you may suffer from stiffness, joint pain, tenderness or redness around the joint. Reduction in the amount of cartilage (connective tissues) causes arthritis, which is also known as inflammation of joints. In rare cases, arthritis can be seen in children as well. The symptoms increase over time and can worsen the pain.
The most common treatment recommended for arthritis is physical therapy. This treatment is used to heal damaged joints, improve the range of movements. Over the years physical therapy has proved to be an effective treatment for different types of arthritis in comparison to drugs.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
A condition where the body’s immune system damages its own tissue is known as rheumatoid arthritis. It causes chronic inflammation on joints and can eventually destroy cartilage and bones. In some cases, rheumatoid arthritis affects different body parts like eyes, skin, lungs and heart. In this condition, you may experience fatigue, slight fever, loss of appetite, painful swelling which may result in bone deformity. These symptoms may flare up to wrists, ankles, shoulders, elbows and hips.
Arthritis Of Knee
Your knees may be affected by different forms of arthritis as explained below:
- Osteoarthritis: Here the cartilage present in the joints wears out, thus decreasing the space between the knee joints and causing painful bone spurs (rubbing of the bones).
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Here the damage is done to the same joint on both the sides of your knees causing stiffness and pain. Sometimes the bone is softened and the tissue is damaged by the immune system.
Posttraumatic Arthritis
Arthritis that is developed after a knee injury is known as posttraumatic arthritis. A broken bone may cause severe pain in the joints after an injury. Ligament injuries lead to instability and wear out your knee joint. The pain may cause weakness and buckling.
Arthritis Symptoms
Although people suffer from different types of arthritis, the symptoms are similar in all conditions. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Joint pain
- Joint swelling
- Grinding sensations
- Lumps around joints
- Redness around joints
- Weakness and numbness
- Swelling of joints
- Decreased range of motion
- Locking of joints which makes it difficult to bend or straighten it
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
The best treatment to get rid of this chronic disorder is to exercise to improve joint function and prevent the weakness of your muscles.
For best rheumatoid arthritis treatment in Richmond, call RVA Physical Therapy
Direct Access makes it possible for you to see a physical therapist without the need for a prescription.
Direct Access
More information on direct access can be found here: https://www.rvaphysicaltherapy.com/direct-access/