Physical Therapist Services for Arthritis

"Arthritis" is a term used to describe inflammation of the joints.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and usually is caused by the deterioration of a joint. Typically, the weight-bearing joints are affected, with the knee and the hip being the most common.

Although osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, osteoarthritis symptoms often can be effectively managed through conservative approaches like exercise and physical therapist treatment.

Physical therapists help patients understand arthritis and its complications, provide treatments to reduce pain and improve movement, and offer education about obesity and healthy lifestyle choices.

Research has shown that light to moderate activities such as walking, biking, and swimming can provide more benefits than harm to your joints, and promote weight loss.

People with pain due to arthritis should see a physical therapist before opting for surgery or opioids.

Symptoms & Conditions

• Osteoarthritis of the Hip
• Osteoarthris of the Knee
• Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder
• Osteoarthritis of the Spine
• Rheumatoid Arthritis

Health and Wellness Tips

• Community-Based Physical Activity Programs for Arthritis
• Exercise for Arthritis: What You Should Know

Did You Know

• Physical Therapy A Good First Choice Before Surgery for Meniscal Tears and Knee Osteoarthritis
• Walking 6,000 Steps a Day May Improve Knee Arthritis

Podcasts

• Juvenile Arthritis
• Meniscal Tears and Osteoarthritis of the Knee: Surgery Not Always Required
• Osteoarthritis of the Hip and Knee
• Physical Therapy A Good First Choice Before Surgery for Meniscal Tears and Knee Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis and Physical Therapy

Patient Stories

• Dentist Gets Help For Arthritis and Headaches From Physical Therapist
• Professor Goes From Physical Therapy Skeptic to Believer

Additional Information

Explore other Health Centers for additional resources on exercise, health, and wellness.