Guidance from a Spokane Valley Physical Therapist on Improving Joint Health
Joint pain can occur due to a range of conditions, such as osteoarthritis, injury to the soft tissues, or acute sprains and strains. Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, providing physical therapy in Spokane Valley, WA, shares three essential physical therapy exercises for improving joint health to relieve pain — and prevent it from returning.
Hip Stretches
Many patients experience pain and discomfort in the hip joints, particularly after a hip injury, find relief through physical therapy. Completing hip stretches with the guidance of a physical therapist can improve range of motion in the hip flexors, reducing stiffness and relieving pain.
Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine often guides patients through 90/90 hip stretches to improve range of motion in the hips. Patients follow these steps to complete this exercise:
- Sit on the floor with the feet flat and knees pointed upwards.
- Place palms flat on the floor behind the back for stability.
- Shift both knees to one side, rotating the torso until the knees are as close to the floor as is comfortable.
- Hold the pose for a few seconds.
- Repeat on the opposite side.
Should patients experience pain or discomfort in other targeted areas, their physical therapists can walk them through range-of-motion exercises for those areas.
Aerobic Exercises
Aerobic exercises increase oxygen and blood circulation to the joints, along with producing other benefits like building strong bones, improving heart health, and clearing the arteries. Patients can incorporate any of the following aerobic exercises as part of their journey to improving joint health:
- Swimming
- Walking
- Riding a stationary bike
- Running on an elliptical machine
Patients should complete these exercises with the guidance of a physical therapist to reduce stress on the joints and ensure proper form.
Strength Training
With the help of a certified physical therapist, patients can begin incorporating strength training exercises into their routines. Activities such as push-ups, squats, shoulder presses, and lunges can strengthen the joints, taking the stress off the injured or painful area.
These low-impact exercises can also help prevent future joint injuries. They can build stronger muscles surrounding the joints, protecting and supporting them.
Contact Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine for PT Services in Spokane Valley, WA
In addition to these exercises, the physical therapists at Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine often recommend that patients incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into their diets and begin a practice of yoga or tai-chi to maintain joint flexibility.
To learn more about improving joint health or to schedule a physical therapy consultation, interested patients can call Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine at 509-928-3443.
