Learn More About Arthritis and Arthritis Treatment Options
Did you know that there are more than 100 different kinds of arthritis? The two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Osteoarthritis affects what is known as cartilage, which is located at the ends of our bones and it protects them from rubbing against each other. Due to a variety of factors, this cartilage can begin to wear away, which causes pain, swelling and joint stiffness. Osteoarthritis can damage any joint of the body but is more likely to affect the joints in hands, knees, spine, and hips. It is a progressive disease, that without treatment, will continue to worsen over time.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a form of autoimmune arthritis. This means a person's immune system detects healthy cartilage and other tissue as a threat and decides to attack. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of joints which can eventually result in bone erosion and deformity. RA can also affect the eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels.
Arhtritis symptoms
The symptoms are progresisve in nature; they emerge slowly and get worse over time. The symptoms are:- Pain
- Lack of flexibility in area(s) affected
- Joint Stiffness and Tenderness
- Fatigue
- Swelling
What Causes Arthritis?
Excess weight, family history, aging, poor muscle strength, muscle imbalances, and previous injuries, can predispose someone to developing osteoarthritis. It can occur without a family history or in the absence of a specific cause.
Primary arthritis usually occurs from a natural cause and not from an injury. It is mostly age related. When a person is aging, the water content in the cartilage changes and protein production is impacted. This results in the degeneration of the cartilage. Secondary arthritis is more likely to be caused by another disease or an injury.
Book An AppointmentWhat Arthritis Treatment Our Physiotherapist Can Provide?
There are pharmaceuticals, which work to reduce pain and inflammation of the joints, but there is no specific treatment to eliminate it completely. Weight loss and avoiding activities in which pressure is exerted on the joints will help with arthritis treatment, along with strengthening muscles stabilizing the joints. Weight loss is immediately recommended by the doctors as obesity is one of the major causes of arthritis. Our Naturopathic Doctor, Maria Galantai, can help you with nutrition and supplementation to help minimize your symptoms and maximize your function. Contact us for more information.
Other treatments may include targeted exercises, dietary changes, physiotherapy, or external joint support. Swimming is also suggested for patients suffering from arthritis. Activities such a stationary cycling, walking, and light weight training are also suggested by our physiotherapists. Nicole Stokes or Janna Marvyn, physiotherapists at Pillars of Wellness provide arthritis education and treatment to help you keep motion is those painful joints.
Prevention
Weight control and maintaining and active lifestyle are the main elements to help reduce the occurrence and severity of arthritis.Our Testimonials
"I recently hired their Physiotherapist for a sprain ankle. She came to visit me 3 times/week which made a huge difference as I couldn't walk very well. She was very professional and knowledgeable, with lots of patience. You can tell she is passionate and committed to help others. The clinic was also very helpful and responded to my emails in a prompt manner" - Elora Cali
"This is the first time I give a review. I cannot say enough about this clinic. They are really amazing. Friendly, great customer service and helped me with a condition I have for years. Feeling better by the day. Thank you so much!" - Josephine Lagarde
Why Pillars of Wellness?
At Pillars of Wellness, in Burlington, Ontario, we are proud to provide a truly integrated care approach that employs a variety of treatments to achieve a faster recovery. Our clinic offers various services such as physiotherapy, chiropractic, naturopathy, counselling, occupational therapy, yoga therapy, acupuncture, and holistic nutrition.
With multiple services and specialties in one place, you’ll get the best care possible — without having to look elsewhere. Pillars of Wellness is your one-stop-health solution, located right here in Burlington.
Last but not least, physiotherapy is typically covered under most extended health insurance plans. If you do not have coverage, or have exceeded your coverage limits, you can consult with our Chiropractors. Both Chiropractor's and Physiotherapist's have skills and techniques to treat and manage arthritis and associated symptoms.