Significance of physiotherapy in arthritis

What, when and why?

Introduction and background Unlike typical medical or allopathic therapies, physiotherapy can be effectively and successfully used to treat, prevent, manage and control almost all kinds of arthritis. Therefore, today, physiotherapy has been recommended by a number of rheumatologists, health care experts and international guidelines (American College of Rheumatology 2000, Jordan et al 2003) for the management of various kinds of arthritis. This is because physiotherapists are highly skilled at assessing how arthritis affects joint movement, muscle strength and physical function. Research demonstrates that specific exercises targeted at improving joint mobility and increasing muscle strength help manage arthritis and improve function and symptoms.

Definition of physiotherapy Physiotherapy is the use of external therapies to prevent and treat health conditions. It may involve the use of heat, cold, light, and physical and mechanical means to enhance healing within the body. Physiotherapists are health-care specialists trained in the use of physiotherapy. Many holistic doctors incorporate physiotherapy techniques and methods into their practices.

Role of physiotherapy in arthritis Many people develop symptoms of arthritis after a physical injuries (such as trauma, accidents etc.,) and thus structural abnormalities must be addressed through physical therapies. Chiropractic, osteopathic, and craniosacral therapy; physiotherapy; and sometimes massage are very helpful in reducing pain and other associated symptoms. Physiotherapy can be used to alleviate the symptoms associated with these conditions such as pain, stiffness and muscle weakness. This is achieved by drawing upon a range of nonpharmacological modalities, including exercise therapy (land and water based), self management and education, joint mobilization, electrotherapy, and provision of joint protection devices. It should also be noted that muscle weakness, pain, and joint stiffness associated with arthritis can often limit the choices of physical activity. Physiotherapists are highly skilled in exercise prescription and as such, play a key role in the design, delivery and implementation of exercise programs for the management of these disorders. Physiotherapists can design appropriate modifications so that the benefit of increased

physical activity is achieved without aggravating the coexisting musculoskeletal problems of arthritis. Appropriate exercise also plays a vital role in prevention and early treatment. Generally speaking, a physiotherapist can help improve your symptoms of arthritis by: Assessing the affected area and asking about daily activities to assess the impact on your joints Developing an effective treatment plan to safely improve or restore movement and mobility affected by arthritis Helping you manage your condition through education and treatment to reduce pain and swelling, strengthen muscles and increase joint mobility without worsening your arthritis symptoms

Conclusion Last but not least, physiotherapy is an essential discipline in the prevention and management of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions. There is strong evidence, in the form of randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, to support a number of physiotherapy modalities used to treat all bone and joint related disorders. Timely access to physiotherapy services can assist in musculoskeletal disease prevention, delay disease progression, and reduce relapse and disease severity.