Causes of Arthritis:

• Osteoarthritis: Associated with gradual joint wear and tear over time, leading to diminished cartilage and bone-on-bone contact as one ages.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition where the immune system targets the body’s joints, resulting in inflammation, swelling, and potential cartilage and bone damage.

While specific causes vary, common risk factors include joint injuries, obesity, age, and family history.

Signs and Symptoms:

Arthritis, in its diverse forms, shares common symptoms:

• Joint pain

• Stiffness

• Swelling

• Decreased range of motion

• Redness

Treatment Approaches:

• Physiotherapy: Offers exercises and therapies to manage pain, enhance fitness, and restore range of motion.

• Medications: Include pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids, and disease-modifying drugs to alleviate symptoms and slow progression.

• Custom orthotics: Alleviate stress on commonly affected joints like knees and hips.

Physiotherapy for Arthritis at Activa:

Tailored treatment plans by our physiotherapists encompass a holistic approach, incorporating various therapies such as exercises, stretches, massage, chiropractic care, acupuncture, custom orthotics, and functional braces.

Preventing Arthritis:

• Incorporate omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish into your diet (salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines).

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of osteoarthritis in the knees.

• Stay active to strengthen muscles around joints, ensuring stability and protection.

Cost and Coverage

Like many of our services, our physiotherapy treatments are often covered through employer, auto, or disability insurance. So treatments can be available at little or no cost to you. Get in touch or schedule a consultation to learn more.