Rheumatoid arthritis causes persistent joint pain and stiffness that can have a serious impact on your quality of life. While it is not a curable condition, rheumatoid arthritis can be a manageable one. By taking a proactive role in your treatment and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can enjoy a normal activity level and a higher degree of comfort. 

Among other doctor-recommended treatments, physical therapy can be a highly effective way to help you manage your condition and symptoms, whether it’s back pain or stiffness in the hands. We’ve created the following overview to help people living with rheumatoid arthritis have a clearer picture of how physical therapy and other choices can offer meaningful relief. 

We’re here to help. If you have any questions or want to learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. 

How does physical therapy help with rheumatoid arthritis?

Every person and case of rheumatoid arthritis is unique. As experts in the functionality of the body, particularly the musculoskeletal system, your physical therapist can perform a full one-on-one evaluation to determine how movement is being affected and if biomechanics are contributing to pain in any way. He or she will also ask you about your current activity level and severity of symptoms. From there, you can work together to develop a holistic treatment plan that includes methods like therapeutic exercise, manual therapy and lifestyle choices.

Physical therapy can help you live with rheumatoid arthritis by doing the following: 

• Mobilizing stiff joints and soft tissue to improve range of motion
• Strengthening supporting muscles to decrease pressure on the joints
• Improving cardiovascular health to increase blood flow to painful areas
• Releasing painful trigger points caused by chronically tense muscles
• Fixing your posture to more evenly distribute weight and pressure on your joints

Additionally, your physical therapist can talk to you about lifestyle choices like staying active, eating anti-inflammatory foods and getting plenty of rest to promote overall health and make you better able to manage your symptoms. 

Rehab Access can help you live with rheumatoid arthritis

If you’re living with rheumatoid arthritis, we understand the pain and difficulty this condition can cause. Our compassionate and expertly trained clinical team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve the long-term relief you deserve. 

Start your treatment journey by contacting Rehab Access today to schedule your initial appointment.