What is Arthritis
Arthritis causes pain and stiffness from inflammation of the joint. There are two types of arthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis which is an autoimmune disease and Osteoarthritis which is most often a result of aging as well as wear and tear.
How To Manage Joint Stress
For years, people with arthritis were told to avoid any kind of impact or compression through their joints, however it turns out that a certain amount of compression on a joint is actually an important part of managing joint health. The key is how much load and how the load is applied to joints.
Our bodies are great at adapting to increased load but often we do too much too quickly. Progressive loading allows people suffering from arthritis to gradually increase load on the joint and avoid overloading, which can help improve pain and function.
How COAST Can Help
Working with Physiotherapist, Athletic Therapist and/or Kinesiologist can help people with arthritis relearn movement patterns, strengthen the muscles to support the joints, and improve mobility to prevent additional strain on the joint. Education is another important part of managing arthritis. A Physiotherapist can offer tools and tips for how to manage pain and flare ups.
Massages with a Registered Massage Therapist can also be very therapeutic. Massage can help reduce muscle tension, relieve pain, increase circulation and improve mobility.
At COAST, our goal is to empower people by improving their movement capabilities so they can perform in life. Our team will work together to find a movement-based treatment to help educate clients and help manage pain.
Mike Green is a Physiotherapist at COAST who specializes in treating patients with arthritis. To book an appointment with Mike at our Kitsilano Clinic, call 604-423-3160 or click here.