Arthritis

 
 
 
 
 

Arthritis

 
 

Osteoarthritis of the Hip

Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder

Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Osteoarthritis of the Spine

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What is Osteoarthritis?

Your bones are connected at joints such as the hip and knee. A rubbery substance called cartilage coats the bones at these joints and helps reduce friction when you move. A protective oily substance called synovial fluid is also contained within the joint, helping to ease movement. When these protective coverings break down, the bones begin to rub together during movement. This can cause pain, and this process can lead to more damage in the remaining cartilage and the bones themselves.

The cause of OA is unknown. Current research points to aging as the main cause. Factors that may increase your risk for OA include:

Age
Growing older increases your risk of developing OA because of the amount of time you’ve used your joints.
Genetics
Research indicates that some people’s bodies have difficulty forming cartilage. Individuals can pass this problem on to their children.
Past Injury
Individuals with prior injury to a specific joint, especially a weight-bearing joint (such as the hip or knee), are at increased risk for developing OA.
Occupation
Jobs that require repetitive squatting, bending, and twisting are risk factors for OA. People who perform jobs that require prolonged kneeling (miners, flooring specialists) are at high risk for developing OA.
Sports
Athletes who repeatedly use a specific joint in extreme ways (pitchers, football linemen, ballet dancers) may increase their risk of developing OA later in life.
Obesity
Being overweight causes increased stress to the weight-bearing joints (such as knees), increasing the risk of developing OA.
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How Can a Physical Therapist Help?

Your physical therapist can effectively treat OA. Depending on how severe the OA is, physical therapy may help you avoid surgery. Although the symptoms and progression of OA are different for each person, starting an individualized exercise program and addressing risk factors can help relieve your symptoms and slow the condition’s advance. Here are a few ways your physical therapist can help:

  • Your therapist will do a thorough examination to determine your symptoms and what activities are difficult for you. He or she will design an exercise program to address those activities and improve your movement.
  • Your therapist may use manual (hands-on) therapy to improve the movement of the affected joint.
  • Your physical therapist may offer suggestions for adjusting your work area to lessen the strain on your joints.
  • Your physical therapist can teach you an aerobic exercise program to improve your movement and overall health and offer instructions for continuing the program at home.
  • If you are overweight, your physical therapist can teach you an exercise program for safe weight loss and recommend simple lifestyle changes that will help keep the weight off.

In cases of severe OA that are not helped by physical therapy alone, surgery, such as a knee or hip replacement, may be necessary. Your physical therapist will refer you to an orthopedic surgeon to discuss the possibility of surgery.

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How Does it Feel?

Typically, OA causes pain and stiffness in the joint. Common symptoms include:

  • Stiffness in the joint, especially in the morning, which eases in less than 30 minutes
  • Stiffness in the joint after sitting or lying down for long periods
  • Pain during activity that is relieved by rest
  • Cracking, creaking, crunching, or other types of joint noise
  • Pain when you press on the joint
  • Increased bone growth around the joint that you may be able to feel

Caution: Swelling and warmth around the joint is not usually seen with OA and may indicate a different condition or signs of inflammation. Please consult with your doctor if you have swelling, redness, and warmth in the joint.

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Customer Testimonials

  • Patricia C.

    "Everyone is so friendly and kind. The atmosphere is very relaxed and comfortable. The PTs explain and instruct very clearly. All PTs are very professional and patient. All the staff seem to get along so well and work so well together. The reception team has been very positive, relaxed and effective."

    Patricia C.
  • Katherine T.

    "My experience here at Request has been excellent. The staff is very efficient and very focused on my needs for recovery following my surgery. I've learned how to safely use my body always maintaining proper form to protect my back for necessary body movement."

    Katherine T.
  • Jen L.

    "Very positive experience! With the staff's knowledgeable, professional and friendly approach, along with "homework", my outcome was better and quicker than I ever expected! Thank you."

    Jen L.
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Where Can You Find Us?

(941) 744-9046

2601 Manatee Avenue West Ste E Bradenton, FL 34205

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