What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is an important part of treatment for most people with arthritis. Physiotherapists are part of a team of healthcare professionals who help you restart or maintain an active and independent life at home and work. They are experts in assessing movements and can also show you how to protect your joints.
Be strong and healthy
Some things that a physiotherapist should offer:
- Offers advice and assurance.
- It helps you feel confident about managing your situation.
- Address any concerns or uncertainty.
- Set appropriate goals to keep you as active as possible.
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How can physiotherapy help?
It is important to try to stay active when you have arthritis. Many people worry that exercise will increase their pain or damage their joints. But the joints are designed to move and inactivity weakens the muscles.
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How can I access physiotherapy services?
There are several ways to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist: You can be referred by your general practitioner or consultant in your local or hospital physiotherapy department. You may be able to self-refer to see a physical therapist. Check with your general practitioner to see if there is an NHS physiotherapy department in your area that accepts self-referrals.
Exercise programs with grades
You can gradually build your strength, stamina, mobility and activity levels by following a classified exercise program. Your physical therapist will show you how to start gently and then gradually increase your activity, without getting tired or adding to your pain. We would recommend a combination of:
- 1. Stringent exercise to help ease pain
- 2. Strengthening exercises to build or maintain strength in the muscles that support your joints
- 3. General fitness exercises,
which are important for
your health. - 4. Proprioceptive exercises, which improve balance, coordination and decoration.