Understanding Arthritis
What actually is arthritis?
We hear about it ALL THE TIME but do we really understand what it is? Let’s discuss…
“Arthritis” encompasses more than 100 conditions that affect joints and other areas of the body. The three most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and gout.
Over time and with repeated stress, the cartilage that covers and protects the bones that make up our joints loses its elasticity and strength…making it susceptible to wear and tear. When the cushion of cartilage slowly goes away, that leads to OA which is also referred to as degenerative joint disease.
Since OA is what I most commonly see in my physical therapy practice, let’s dive deeper into it.
What are some warning signs that you’re developing arthritis?
Joint pain
More often than not, it worsens with activity. This is where a physical therapist(PT) can be extremely helpful. Your PT can help you find positions and types of exercise that will be less painful and will allow your muscles and joints to move better.
Noisy joints
This is also known as “crepitus” and is normal with arthritis. As a PT, I usually use the rule of thumb that if the noisy joint doesn’t hurt, don’t worry about the crackling.
Swelling
Due to inflammation, joints can become swollen, painful and red. This tends to be more common with rheumatoid arthritis but can happen with other types as well. Your PT can help you decide if icing the joint is a good idea based on the location and type of arthritis.
Reduced strength
This is one that we can certainly combat with physical therapy. As the pain from arthritis increases, our activity levels tend to decrease…but we need to keep moving to prevent muscle loss.
Reduced mobility
Movement can become painful and very slow. An exercise class that typically felt easy might feel more challenging. Stretches that felt good in the past may start to feel more tight and uncomfortable.
Along with joint pain, crackling and popping sounds, swelling, loss of mobility and decreased strength, OA can produce these symptoms as well:
Instability- Supporting tissues around joints such as ligaments become weak and stretched, leading to joint instability
Loose bodies- This is exactly what it sounds like…fragments of bone or cartilage break off and move freely within the joint
Bony growths- AKA “nodes” or “spurs” that feel like bony bumps on the joints can develop
How can you monitor your OA?
This is typically monitored with imaging techniques that allow your physician to see and analyze the joint space left, bone erosion, bony growths etc. Another way of monitoring your OA is through activity tolerance and strength and mobility; this is done with the help of a physical therapist(PT). Your PT will perform an in-depth assessment at the start of treatment which will give them something to compare progress to and ensure that you’re on the right track.
Movement is almost always the answer.
It may seem like exercise is scary and would do more harm than good when you’re diagnosed with arthritis…but physical activity is exactly what your joints need. It is recommended that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week and strength train at least 2 days per week.
Try some yoga to improve your flexibility, a balance class to improve your stability and safety, a strength class to increase your muscle mass, and grab a buddy to go on walks with!
If walking hurts too much, try getting into the pool! Aquatic therapy is a great option for those who are in too much pain for land exercise.
Long story short, although arthritis can feel very deflating and difficult, a PT can help guide you in the right direction to live the most active life you can.
Questions? Contact Dr. Courtney!
Email: courtney@plusforte.co
Phone: 978-590-6951
Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation: Contact Us — Plus Forte Physical Therapy
