Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy plays an import ant role in the management of Arthritis.
Acute Stage
If a joint is painful, swollen and possibly red and hot: -
1. Apply ice to the joint for 10
minutes at a time. This can be repeated 4 -5 times a daily.
2. Rest the affected limb until
the symptoms subside. Sometimes a splint is required to immobilise
the joint. Your physiotherapist will advise you on this and probably
supply the splint.
3. Once daily, perform gentle movement
of the affected joint to maintain mobility. Once again, your physiotherapist
will advise you on this.
4. Physiotherapists can also provide
treatments to help reduce local areas of inflammation.
Ultrasound: This painless treatment
can be effective in reducing swelling and inflammation along with
technique listed above.
Laser: This treatment is proving
effective and useful especially because it is so precise. This means
it is very useful when treating tendons and other small areas that
are inflamed. Another painless treatment!
Interferential: Is also able to reduce
inflammation and ease pain and comes into its own when treating a
large area.
When the joint has settled:
1. It is now important to gently
mobilise the joint and strengthen the surrounding muscles.
A high repetition of the same action can increase inflammation so
mobilise the joint with slow, controlled, low repetitive movements
in the full pain-free range. Guess who will advise you
on these ?!
Remember, you cannot always tell immediately when you have done enough
so progress your exercises gently under careful supervision of your
physiotherapist.
2. Muscle strengthening is important
now. Because of the possible irritability of newly settled joints,
isometric exercises work the muscles but no movement takes place so
the joint cannot be aggravated
3. Increase general activity and exercise
tolerance.
Don't rush! This is a gradual process.
Walking and swimming are especially helpful. Listen to your body.
If you feel tired you have probably done enough.
Remember physiotherapy is a four-letter word!
MOVE
Keep in touch with your physiotherapist to advise and monitor your
rehabilitation.
Article provided by Mrs Julia A. Robson, M.C.S.P.,S.R.P., Chartered
Physiotherapist.
