What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is basically inflammation of the joints. There are over a hundred types of arthritis. It is a rheumatic condition, which means a disorder of the extremities or back characterized by pain and stiffness. Rheumatic conditions tend to involve pain, achiness, and swelling around one or more joints. Symptoms can start gradually or come on suddenly. Some rheumatic conditions involve the immune system and various organs of the body. 

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the body’s immune system starts attacking the tissues of the body, especially the connective tissue. This leads to joint inflammation and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any point and is characterized by fatigue and stiffness at rest.

The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis.  Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative disease that affects the cartilage, joint lining, and ligaments. The breakdown of these tissues leads to pain and stiffness. The joints affected by osteoarthritis are ones that tend to get heavy use like the hips, knees, and spine.

Many people with arthritis will suffer through the pain before receiving a diagnosis. Getting treatment early can prevent further deterioration of your joints. Doctors will often recommend physical therapy to help patients overcome some of the challenges of arthritis and to increase their mobility. Physical therapy combines specific exercises that are tailored to people with arthritis and different pain-relieving treatments like ice and heat therapy and massage. 

Patients can also benefit from occupational therapy in which they will learn how to better manage everyday tasks. They will also receive practical advice from their occupational therapist on which aids and equipment to buy. This can help them manage their fatigue and improve their quality of life.

If you are looking for a good physical or occupational therapist, our team here at Reddy Care Physical and Occupational therapy has got you covered. We have expert physical and occupational therapists that can help you manage your arthritis symptoms. Give us a call to find out more! 

Reddy Care Great Neck (Great Neck Physical Therapy): 516-829-0030
Reddy Care Farmingdale (Farmingdale Physical Therapy): 516-420-2900
In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): 516-829-0030

Author

Dr. Stephanie Idjadi, DPT, CAFS, FMT Dr. Stephanie Idjadi, DPT received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the New York Institute of Technology. She has done research in Parkinson's and was published in the International Journal of Health Sciences. Stephanie began her career at Reddy-Care Physical Therapy nine years ago as a physical therapy aide while also working on marketing, recruiting, human resources and many other administrative activities. After graduating in 2015 Stephanie started her career with us as a physical therapist. As the clinical director of our Great Neck clinic, she supports a team of 9 therapists. In her role, she ensures that clinical care is delivered to the highest standards so that patients can achieve their goals.