Athlete’s Arthritis

While arthritis is a condition most of us have heard of, it’s not something that we completely understand. There are more than 100 types of arthritis, and it’s responsible for both joint pain and joint disease. Also, contrary to popular belief, arthritis can affect people of all ages, not just individuals who are older. Those who are especially vulnerable to arthritis are athletes, who are constantly putting wear and tear on their bodies. Researchers have seen that the risk of having hip or knee arthritis is 85 percent more likely in athletes. Island Sports Physical Therapy in East Meadow, East Northport, Huntington, Coram, Smithtown, and Glen Cove, can provide the best possible treatment for anyone suffering from arthritis.

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is something that affects many current and former athletes. Osteoarthritis is when the cartilage between your joints slowly breaks down, resulting in friction between your bones which results in swelling, stiffness, and pain. Because of high-impact pressure on joints from sports like basketball or football, your body is being put at risk. Island Sports Physical Therapy has the staff and resources available to treat any injury you get.

How to Treat Arthritis

The first step to treating any symptoms of arthritis is to get the best care possible. Physical therapy in East Meadow is a great way to recover from any joint pain you may have and can prevent any future discomfort from occurring. Here are some ways physical therapists can treat your arthritis:

• Posture – physical therapists can teach you the best body mechanics and proper posture for pain relief and improved function for daily activities.

• Treatment Options – splints and braces to support weak joints have the ability to reduce the stress that may be put on your body. Other treatments like hot and cold therapy can also help ease stiffness and joint discomfort.

• Environment – changing your living arrangement can certainly help in a recovery process. Ergonomic chairs can provide excellent support for your body and relieve back and hip pain.

• Exercise – aside from improving muscle strength, exercise can also reduce pain and improve blood circulation. Losing any excess weight can also result in less stress put on the joints. In fact, a recent study found that losing a pound can be the equivalent of nearly four pounds of pressure off the knee.

• Proper Resting – with proper exercise, allowing yourself to get enough rest is important in treating arthritis. Long periods of rest can result in tight joints. Scheduling periods of rest can help you avoid stiffness, while also averting the possibility of overworking your joints.

Treatment as soon as possible can make the recovery process for treating arthritis more successful. While rehabilitation may be difficult, it will allow you to do the things you love without having to worry about chronic pain. Island Sports Physical Therapy in East Meadow can help athletes and people of all ages improve their lives and treat their arthritic pain. Contact us today.