Exploring Physical Therapy Treatment for Arthritis With a Spokane Valley Specialist
Physical therapy for arthritis can be incredibly effective in treating pain and lack of motion. About 21.2% of U.S. adults have arthritis, but thanks to Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine in Spokane Valley, they don’t have to live with the pain. Below, learn how our physical therapy treatment for arthritis can help them take back their lives.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Arthritis in Spokane Valley, WA
Physical therapists aim to relieve arthritis pain using several methods. These may include massage, exercise, and ice therapy.
Ice Therapy
A physical therapist can apply ice packs to relieve pain in affected joints. Ice numbs pain quickly and has been shown to reduce inflammation for any type of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis.
Medications and Topical Treatments
Physical therapists in Spokane Valley may suggest pain relief medications with other treatment options, such as leg braces, exercise, or shoe insoles, to increase range of motion.
Exercise Programs
An exercise program is very helpful for improving muscle strength. Physical therapy treatment for arthritis starts with a few simple stretches to get patients used to movement before progressing to other exercises for increasing strength, such as:
- Calf raises
- Hamstring curls
- Leg extensions
- Half-squats
- Weight lifting
Therapeutic Massage
Massage is an excellent option for arthritis pain relief. Therapeutic massage promotes blood flow, delivering long-lasting relief from arthritis symptoms.
Shoe Modifications
Shoe insoles are particularly helpful for people with arthritis in their knees. These insoles can take pressure off the heels and reduce the impact of body weight as one walks.
Kinesiology Taping
This is another effective option for people with arthritis in the knees. Kinesiology tape lifts and stabilizes the knee so that the impact of walking causes less pain.
Electric Stimulation
Physical therapists can apply low-current electric stimulation to help the body produce endorphins, which are natural painkillers.
Does Medicare Cover Physical Therapy?
If a doctor decides their patient could benefit from physical therapy, Medicare will cover some or all of the cost. Medicare Part A covers physical therapy at inpatient facilities. Medicare Part B covers the remaining 80% of treatment costs once a patient meets their yearly outpatient treatment deductible.
Effective Physical Therapy Treatment for Arthritis in Spokane Valley
Individuals need not live with pain any longer thanks to physical therapy treatment for arthritis. Located in Spokane Valley, Lighthouse Physical Therapy promotes holistic treatments designed to heal the entire body from the inside out. In addition to arthritis treatment, the clinic can assist with sports injuries, torn ACLs in the knee, and pelvic floor therapy for postnatal patients.
People with arthritis can call Lighthouse Physical Therapy at (509) 928-3443 to make an appointment today.
