Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Types of arthritis
While there are multiple different types of arthritis, two of the most common are Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. If you have been told that you have a joint that is “bone on bone”, then you most likely have Osteoarthritis, or OA. This is a common phrase for when there is a loss of cartilage, or the cushioning between joints, that helps with smoother movement and motion. Though certain factors increase your risk of OA, such as aging, genetics, past injury, an occupation or sport that requires repetitive motion, and obesity, there are ways that physical therapy can help!
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA
…is an autoimmune disorder that affects the joints, often causing them to be warm, swollen, and painful. It also often presents in a symmetrical pattern on both sides of the body, but most commonly at the knees, wrists, and hands. This type of arthritis often requires physical examination, diagnostic imaging, and lab tests to be performed in order to be diagnosed.
For both types of arthritis, our therapists can assist to strength the muscles surrounding the joint, recommend activity modifications, and/or suggest ways to offload the joint, depending on your personal goals.
