VCSST_Helping Arthritis Pain

VCSST_Helping Arthritis Pain

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MOVING IS LIVING We Can Help You Beat Arthritis Pain and Get Moving Again

INSIDE: • The Science

Behind Fixing Your Arthritis Pain • Arthritis Treatment • Seek PT First!

Newsletter

Have you been told you have osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic condition of the joints, affecting approximately 27 million Americans. Although it occurs in people of all ages, osteoarthritis is most common in people older than 65. However, changes in the joint may not equate to pain or future problems. There are many studies and patient success stories promoting the effectiveness of physical therapy for osteoarthritis. Our expert physical therapists at VCSST are trained in specialized hands-on therapeutic techniques for patients suffering with osteoarthritis. Our patients report obtaining fast pain relief and improved movement. In a recent study, 83 patients with osteoarthritis were divided to receive either hands-on physical therapy or a sugar pill that actually did nothing to help their pain without them knowing. The group that received hands-on therapy, had therapy to the knee, low back, hip, and ankle as required. They then performed a knee exercise program in the clinic and at home. The group taking the sugar pill had just low intensity ultrasound, a form of deep heat, to the problem area. Both groups were treated at the clinic twice weekly for 4 weeks. Tests were done to measure how well the patients were doing compared to their initial visit, 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 1 year later. The results were THE SCIENCE BEHIND FIXING YOUR ARTHRITIS PAIN

very impressive showing the patients who had hands-on physical therapy, combined with specific exercises had significant improvements in their pain, mobility and function. By 8 weeks, patients were able to walk further and faster with much less or completely resolved pain. Their joint stiffness, aches and mobility had improved by 55% compared to the placebo group who had no treatment. At one year, patients in the treatment group still were doing great in terms of less pain and more mobility. Other benefits included less need for surgery with only 5% of patients in the treatment group having undergone surgery as compared to 20% with the placebo group. In general, if you are suffering from osteoarthritis, especially of the back, hip or knee, physical therapy decreases the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis and may delay or prevent the need for more invasive treatments, like injections or surgery. Isn’t it time you did something about your arthritis and your pains? Call us today so we can make a positive difference in your life.

Annals of Internal Medicine: February 1, 2000 vol. 132 no. 3 173-181. Gail D. Deyle, MPT; Nancy E. Henderson, PhD, MPT;Robert L.Matekel,MPT;MichaelG.Ryder,MPT;MatthewB.Garber,MPT; andStephenC.Allison,PhD,MPT,ECS

Patient Spotlight “I enjoyed attending each session for both the therapy and the conversation.” “I just finished a three month course of treatment with Eric Jorde. This is the second time Eric has helped me recover from shoulder surgery. He is very knowledgeable and develops an individualized plan for each patient. I enjoyed attending each session for both the therapy and the conversation. He and all the other staff are very friendly and outgoing. It is a very pleasant environment in which to work and recover. Even though I have run out of shoulders to treat, I will definitely use Eric again if I have any PT needs in the future.” J.B.

Seek PT First! Direct Access is the ability for people to be evaluated and treated by a licensed physical therapist without first having to see a physician. This is regulated by the individual states and may be subject to limitations by your particular insurance carrier. Currently, Virginia law permits you to see a Physical Therapist of your choice for up to 30 days without having to see a physician first. The staff at VCSST is happy to help answer your questions regarding direct access for physical therapy. Call to schedule your appointment directly or to get your direct access questions answered.

Refer a friend and if they mention your name while scheduling their initial appointment, you get a $10 gift card! Whodo youknowthat needs our help?

Do You Have Friends or Family Unable to Do The Following? 9 Move without pain 9 Bend and move freely 9 Balance confidently and securely 9 Sit for long periods comfortably 9 Walk for long distances 9 Live an active and healthy lifestyle

CALL TODAY (804)249-8277

GET YOUR ACTIVE LIFESTYLE BACK!

When it comes to treating arthritis, you may have more options than you realize. There is much you can do to reduce your aches and pains from arthritis while gaining more mobility and function. We offer consistent recommendations for our patients suffering with the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. If you want to know how to relieve and reduce the pain of arthritis, try our physical therapy first. Patients often experience pain from arthritis because of stiff joints, muscles and other tissues. In addition, muscles become weak, therefore not supporting the arthritic joints. The customized treatments at VCSST promote muscle strength, improve range of motion, increase mobility and relieve pain. In addition, coupling your physical therapy with the following can also help you live life to the fullest and get you back to doing the things you love. Home Program When your physical therapy is over, your therapist will have equipped you with the knowledge and exercises you need to continue progress on your own. Weight Loss Maintaining your recommended weight or losing weight if you are overweight can lessen your pain. Weight loss specifically helps ease pressure on joints such as your hips and knees. Orthotics If arthritis affects your knee, special footwear and insoles can reduce pain and improve walking. Bracing Osteoarthritis can cause instability in joints. A knee or back brace can help reduce pain, improve stability and reduce the risk of falling.

If you are having these symptoms call VCSST today!

Inability to stand or sit for long periods of time Difficulty getting in and out of bed Inability to walk for at least 20 minutes Joint pain and/or stiffness Unable to enjoy leisure activities Difficulty getting up and down from the floor Limited ability to exercise Unable to work due to pain Difficulty going up and down steps or curbs

COMPONENTS OF ARTHRITIS TREATMENT Individuals with arthritis can benefit from comprehensive treatment plans which include proper diet, medication, and appropriate exercise. The first step is understanding your particular condition by discussing it with your doctor or physical therapist. Your treatment plan should take into consideration which joints are involved, the amount of inflammation, how stable the joints are and your typical activity level. HOW TO GET STARTED •

Begin with a supervised program from your doctor or physical therapist. This should be developed based on your unique needs and not a one-size-fits-all routine. Initially it may include therapeutic techniques such as mobilizations or modalities as well as educating you about your particular issues. • Stretch and warm up with range of motion exercises which can relieve stiffness and increase flexibility. • Start strengthening exercises slowly and with small weights. Aerobic exercise contributes to overall fitness, function and well-being, and can also help control weight which might be placing extra stress on joints. • Add aerobic exercise in gradually. Aerobic exercise contributes to overall fitness, function and well-being and can help control weight which might be placing extra stress on joints • Ease off if joints become painful, inflamed or red but do not stop exercising completely. Talk with your doctor or therapist about pain relief during joint flare ups and how you should modify exercise during these times. • Find a recreational activity that you enjoy doing and make it a habit.

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