Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage gradually breaks down, leading to significant pain, stiffness, and inflammation. While it’s most common in those over 50, it can occur earlier in life as a result of injury, genetics, or overuse.
If you suffer from osteoarthritis, you don’t have to live in pain any longer. Our team at Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy can help you find relief with a personalized physical therapy program designed to improve your mobility, reduce your joint pain, and live your life with confidence — without relying solely on medication.
The Causes and Effects of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is different from rheumatoid arthritis. It’s not an autoimmune disease; instead, it occurs as the result of wear and tear on the joint cartilage over time, which is why it typically affects older adults. Prior injuries, obesity, repetitive stress on the joints, inactivity, poor posture, and joint misalignment can accelerate degeneration, and those who have a family history of this condition are more likely to develop it.
Commonly affecting the knees, hips, spine, hands, and shoulders, osteoarthritis can cause:
- Joint pain during or after movement
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for long periods
- Swelling around the joint
- A loss of flexibility or a reduced range of motion
- A grating sensation or clicking sounds in the joint
- Bone spurs near affected joints
Why Choose Physical Therapy for Osteoarthritis?
Physical therapy is an effective way to slow osteoarthritis progression and help patients stay active and independent. It has shown to decrease the need for medication, joint injections, and surgery, providing a natural, side effect-free alternative to more invasive treatments.
Targeted movement and mobility programs can significantly reduce pain by improving joint mechanics and strengthening the supportive muscles. Physical therapy can also enhance flexibility and encourage a healthier range of motion, restoring the body’s ability to move freely and without pain.
You may benefit from osteoarthritis physical therapy if you:
- Need help managing chronic joint pain or stiffness
- Want to avoid or are recovering from joint surgery
- Have a loss of movement or flexibility in one or more joints
- Are an active adult who wants to continue exercising safely
- Are looking to reduce your reliance on medication for joint pain
- Have difficulty performing daily activities like standing, walking, or climbing stairs
Our Individualized Osteoarthritis Treatment Approach
At Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy, we pride ourselves on our personalized approach to osteoarthritis treatment. We perform thorough assessments to develop individualized plans for each patient based on their unique needs and goals. This includes evaluating joint mobility and alignment, testing muscle strength and balance, completing an assessment of functional movement, and reviewing any lifestyle factors that may be contributing to their symptoms.
Personalized Exercise Programs
Based on the results of our assessments, we formulate personalized exercise programs designed to support weakened joints, improve circulation, and reduce stiffness. We guide patients through low-impact aerobic exercises and functional movement training to ensure they can safely and comfortably perform their daily activities.
Pain Management Techniques
Rather than prescribing pain medications, we use ice, heat therapy, and electrical stimulation (TENS) when needed to provide lasting pain relief. Our physical therapists also educate patients on at-home pain management strategies to help them find relief on their own.
Education and Lifestyle Support
We understand that there’s more to osteoarthritis treatment than simply attending physical therapy appointments. That’s why we teach our patients about proper body mechanics, share joint protection strategies, and give recommendations for low-impact at-home exercises. We can also provide nutritional advice and weight management support if needed.
Take the First Step Toward Joint Relief with Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy
Don’t let osteoarthritis hold you back from living the active, fulfilling life you deserve. Trust the experts at Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy to help you achieve a greater quality of life and provide the lasting joint relief you’ve been looking for. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Osteoarthritis Be Cured?
There is no cure for osteoarthritis; however, physical therapy can help manage this condition and significantly improve joint function.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Most patients feel improvement within a few weeks of physical therapy. Long-term results depend on the severity of the condition and how consistent you are with treatment. Your physical therapist can give you a clearer idea of the expected timeline once you begin treatment.
Is Physical Therapy Better Than Medication?
For many patients, physical therapy is better than relying on medication. Physical therapy treats the underlying issues causing pain and discomfort, not just the symptoms. In fact, many physical therapy patients reduce their need for medication over time.