Understanding Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

At our Physical Therapy Clinic, we’re committed to helping you understand arthritis—what it is, what causes it, its symptoms, and how professional physical therapy can assist in managing your condition. Your wellness is our priority, and we tailor therapy programs to relieve pain and improve your mobility.

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What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a broad term for conditions that affect the joints and surrounding tissues. The two most common types are:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): Often develops with age or after joint injury, primarily affecting the fingers, knees, and hips.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease that targets the joint lining, causing painful swelling and potentially leading to joint deformity.

What Causes Arthritis?

Causes vary depending on the arthritis type:

  • Osteoarthritis: Occurs when cartilage—the flexible tissue cushioning joints—wears down over time or due to injury, causing bones to rub together.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results from the immune system mistakenly attacking joint tissues, leading to inflammation and swelling.

Other factors like genetics, obesity, infections, and occupational hazards can also contribute to arthritis development or worsen symptoms.

What Are the Symptoms?

Arthritis symptoms can range from mild to severe, including:

  • Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Redness and warmth around joints
  • In advanced cases, visible joint deformities

If you experience persistent joint symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

How Is Arthritis Treated?

While arthritis has no cure, treatments focus on pain relief, improving joint function, and slowing disease progression:

  • Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Physical therapy to maintain flexibility and strength
  • Occupational therapy to help you perform daily tasks without stressing your joints

Severe cases might require surgical options like joint replacement or fusion.

How Can a Physical Therapist Help?

Physical therapists play a vital role in managing arthritis through:

  • Personalized Exercise Programs: Strengthening muscles, enhancing flexibility, and increasing range of motion
  • Pain Management Techniques: Using heat/cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to ease joint pain
  • Patient Education: Teaching joint protection, ergonomics, and adaptive strategies to prevent further damage
  • Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to reduce stiffness and improve mobility
  • Assistive Device Guidance: Recommending tools to support independence in daily activities

Ready to Find Relief?

Don’t let arthritis limit your life. Take the first step toward improved health and mobility by scheduling an appointment with our skilled therapists. At our Physical Therapy Clinic, we provide personalized care designed to meet your unique needs and enhance your quality of life.

Call us today at (712) 256-1800 to book your consultation and start your journey toward a pain-free life.