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Physical Therapy and Exercise
In addition to medications, many people with arthritis
can find relief from physical therapy and exercise. Physical therapy is a treatment
method that focuses on pain relief, healing, restoring function and movement,
improving body mechanics, as well as overall fitness and wellness.
Your doctor
will prescribe physical therapy as part of your treatment plan and will refer
you to a physical therapist. Physical therapists are rehabilitation professionals
trained in the variety of exercises and treatment options that are appropriate
for arthritis sufferers. Your therapist will work closely with your doctor and
you to develop an exercise regimen specifically for you.
Exercising can help arthritis
sufferers in many ways. Exercise reduces joint pain and stiffness and increases
flexibility, muscle strength and endurance. It also helps with weight reduction,
which is important since extra weight can place too much pressure on joints. 
Types of Exercise
Generally
there are 3 types of exercises that are appropriate for people with arthritis:
· Range-of-motion exercises. These exercises should be done daily to help maintain
normal joint movement, relieve stiffness and increase flexibility. Range-of-motion
exercises for the spine may include bending forward, back and to each side.
·
Strengthening exercises. These exercises can also be done every day (unless you
have severe pain) to help increase muscle strength. Strong muscles help support
and protect joints affected by arthritis. Your therapist will instruct you on
proper ways to lift and flex during these exercises.
· Endurance or aerobic exercises.
These exercises can be done three times a week for 20-30 minutes. They improve
cardiovascular fitness, help control weight and improve overall function. Examples
include walking and bike riding.
Other Therapies
In addition to therapeutic exercise, your therapist
may use other treatments such as:
· Heat therapy -warm towels or heat packs are
placed on the spine to relieve pain by increasing blood flow and relaxing tissues.
· Cold therapy - ice packs or ice massage applied to painful areas of the spine
to reduce swelling and pain.
· Water therapy - exercising in a large pool to reduce
pressure on the spine. The heat and movement of whirlpools may also provide pain
relief.
· Massage - can help increase flexibility and circulation. Be sure to
find a trained professional who is experienced in treating people with arthritis.
· TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) - a type of therapy in which
electrodes are applied to the back and a mild electrical current is sent to specific
nerves.
Many people continue their exercise programs even after their prescribed
physical therapy is finished. Your therapist will instruct you on the proper ways
to do your exercises at home and give you tips on how to continue your treatment
on your own.
Bracing
Another area of treatment for arthritis pain involves the
use of braces or "assistive devices" to help support your back and/or relieve
pain. Spinal bracing can help control back pain by limiting motion and relieving
pressure on the vertebrae. Your doctor will let you know if bracing is an option
for you. In addition, devices such as canes, splints or walkers may also help
you get around easier and with less pain.
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