Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Physiotherapy
The two most common forms of Arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Physiotherapy for arthritis focuses on:

• Increase the strength of the joints
• Improving movement and helping restoring the use of the affected joints
• Maintaining and improving the ability to perform daily activities
• Maintaining long term fitness of the joints
• Reducing Swelling
• Stop disease progression

How can it help me?
The physiotherapist will obtain a complete medical history, including issues, timelines and origin of the symptoms as well as the goals for treatment. Physiotherapist will design an individualized plan of exercises which are specifically geared towards flexibility, strength, coordination and balance to achieve optimal physical function. The physiotherapist will guide you through the treatment for overall strengthening of joints, educate you and help you understand the long-term plan for your well-being.

How does it work? The physiotherapist will provide you with techniques and tools which will include the following:

• Educate you about maintaining proper posture and body mechanics for common daily activities to relieve pain and improve function.
• Show you how to properly use assistive devices such as walkers and canes.
• Suggest modifications to your environment, such as ergonomic chairs or a cushioned mat in your kitchen, to relieve pain and improve function.
• Perform Advanced diagnostics to monitor disease progression or treatment results
• Recommend suitable treatment options, such as braces and splints to support joints, shoe inserts to relieve stress on the lower extremities, and hot and cold therapy to ease joint pain and stiffness and maximize your wellbeing.

How long does it take for treatment to start showing results?
The results vary from person to person and also on the severity of the condition. The benefit of going through physiotherapy is that there are no wait times and the sessions can begin almost immediately. With constant monitoring and adjusting of treatment by your physiotherapy as required, you will definitely begin to see results.

Cost and Coverage: Most of our services are covered through employer, auto or disability insurance. Schedule an appointment to learn more about the different options that are available to you.