|
|
Prevention Better Than Cure? WE DO BOTH!
18 Stepney Rd, Scarborough, YO12 5BN 01723 363332 |
|
|
Exercise and Arthritis - The Research |
Sports Therapy | Massage | Arthritis Joint Pain and Arthritis Joint pain and arthritis are common medical problems seen by the GP. What people don't realise is that sports therapy can be just as important as getting the right medication. Sports therapy can help you to keep function. The term "arthritis" is used to describe joint pain or inflammation and is not in itself a diagnosis but rather a description of the joint. In Arthritis the joint inflammation may present as any combination of swelling, tenderness, stiffness, redness or warmth. At Pro-Am the most commonly seen is due to overuse. Such overuse arthritis occurs when a joint and surrounding tendon have been used excessively with a particular activity or due to change in technique that has "stressed" the joint. There are several types of arthritis but broadly speaking they can be split into two main categories; Osteoarthritis and Inflammatory Arthropathies Osteoarthritis is when the cartilage that lines the joint becomes damaged and the joint space becomes narrow. Extra bone can also form which can affect the mechanics of the joint. This type of arthritis can develop if there has been any abnormal stress through the joint or significant recurrent injuries to the same joint. However it can also occur without an obvious reason. The most affected joints tend to be those that weight bear; Hips, Knees and also the Hands. Inflammatory Arthropathies is generic name to cover a few different types of arthritis I.E. Rheumatoid and Gout. With inflammatory arthritis the synovial or joint lining becomes inflamed and this can ultimately damage the joint. The bodies immune system appears to be attacking itself. It is common to have several joints affected. Diagnosis is made through a collection of signs and symptoms and usually an x-ray and blood tests to confirm. Pro-Am works along side the GP involved to help with pain and function. Not all joint pain means you have arthritis but if you do there is plenty you can do. With both types of arthritis the goal is the same; to protect the joints. This can be done by keeping the joints mobile and strong. When people have pain their muscles become weakened because of inhibition and lack of use. This in turn can cause more pain. Consequently its important to have a collection of specific exercises that will help you protect your joints. Pro-Am also uses massage to keep the muscles stimulated (usually once a month). Ultimately we aim to educate the patient to a level of understanding such that they feel comfortable and confident to self-manage their condition. |