Are you waking up with knee or hip stiffness in the morning? Do you have to think twice before you pick things up because of pain? These are the most common complaints of people with knee or hip Osteoarthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, Arthritis is the leading cause of disability among adults in the U.S. and 172 million work days are lost annually due to arthritis and other rheumatic conditions.
Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
- Joint aching and soreness with movement
- Joint tenderness and swelling
- Loss of motion or flexibility
- Pain and stiffness after long periods of inactivity
What is Osteoarthritis?
Arthritis, in simple terms, means inflammation in joints. Osteoarthritis is defined as the abnormal breakdown of cartilage in joints that primarily affects the hip, knee, and spine. This can create decreased joint space and result in bone on bone contact.
What can be done?
Pain is primarily caused by decreased joint motion and fluid, tight muscles surrounding the joint, and decreased strength of muscle fibers. This causes more pressure on the cartilage resulting in more inflammation and pain. Physical therapy is the preferred method of treatment because it identifies the joints with decreased range of motion and specific muscles that require strengthening. With hands-on techniques, strengthening, and flexibility exercises, knee and hip pain can be completely relieved. Call us today for more information!
5 Ways to Naturally Relieve Arthritis Pain
- Heat and cold therapy – Use a heat pad or a warm shower to help bring blood flow to the joint. Heat can help improve stiffness and alleviate pain. Use ice to help relieve joint pain, swelling, or tenderness.
- Exercise – Regular movement helps maintain the motion and flexibility of your joints. Aquatic based exercises have been shown to improve motion and strength without the weight bearing pressure on your joints.
- Meditation – Meditating and relaxation can help reduce stress and stay in the present moment. Studies have shown that this can help alleviate painful joints.
- Diet changes – Adding omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce joint pain and stiffness. Fish oil may be a good supplement to add to your diet.
- Massage – Regular massages can help improve stiffness and range of motion to alleviate pain. Work with a physical therapist to learn massage techniques.
Physical therapy is one of the best ways to improve arthritis pain. Physical therapists can help create an exercise plan that will have strengthen the muscles around your joint, reduce pain, and improve your range of motion. Call us today at 571-265-9570 for more information and discover how you can live life without pain.
Tags: Arthritis, Arthritis Pain, Stiffness, Hip Pain Relief, Knee Pain Relief, Physical Therapy, Respire Physical Therapy
