Physical therapy can improve arthritis symptoms

Oct 5 2010

The American College of Rheumatology is celebrating National Physical Therapy Month by encouraging people with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases to discover the benefits of rehabilitation with a physical therapist.

For the 46 million Americans—300,000 of which are children—who suffer from arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, symptoms can cause pain and challenges in day-to-day living. When this happens, people often seek the help of a rheumatologist and rheumatology health care professionals - including physical therapists whose primary roles are to assist patients in preventing disability and achieving optimal function and pain relief.

Physical therapists are licensed health care professionals trained extensively on anatomy and the musculoskeletal system. Coupled with visiting a rheumatologist, physical therapy can help patients improve or restore mobility and can often serve as a first line of defense before medication or surgical intervention is needed. "When used as a part of an overall rheumatology care plan, physical therapy can effectively relieve inflammation and joint pain," says Carol A. Oatis, PhD, a physical therapist and member of the ACR's health professional division, the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals. "Rheumatic diseases are often complex, and physical therapists work in concert with other rheumatology health professionals to create a plan that allows patients to successfully manage life with a rheumatic disease."

When working with a physical therapist, patients can expect assistance in several areas, including:
• Developing and managing an individualized plan of care that includes personal improvement goals and self‐management skills
• Using therapeutic exercises to relieve discomfort and improve performance by strengthening muscles
• Modifying activities that are painful or harmful
• Adapting home and work environments to better suit individual needs

"Physical therapy is a successful tool that heumatologists use to treat patients with arthritis," explains Linda Ehrlich-Jones, PhD, RN and president of the ARHP. "We are taking advantage of this month to promote the power of rehabilitation and the treatments that encourage a healthy way of living."

In more than 43 states, patients have direct access to a physical therapist. In the remaining states, patients may be referred by health care providers for consultation and treatment. If you are being treated for arthritis or another rheumatic disease, speak with your rheumatologist about the positive role physical therapy can play in your overall wellness.

Source : American College of Rheumatology