In addition to it being Groundhog Day, February 2nd marks Rheumatoid Arthritis Day. Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 1.3 million Americans, and about 75% of them are women. Typically, the condition is diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 50. Your mom has rheumatoid arthritis, and you’re not sure what that means for her. Could physical therapy services at home help her?

RA is an autoimmune condition and form of arthritis that causes joint pain and stiffness in the joints. It also can lead to her joints swelling, which makes it hard for the joints to move freely. A low-grade fever, appetite changes, and a decrease in energy are also possible.

With this type of arthritis, your mom may feel extra stiff in the morning, and that stiffness often lasts for an extended period. If she’s diagnosed with RA, she’ll probably take medications like low-dose corticosteroids and over-the-counter pain medications.

Physical activity is also important. Your mom may hesitate to do so because of the pain she experiences. It’s time to talk to her doctor about the benefits of physical therapy. Here are some ways physical therapy helps with RA.

Boost Flexibility

Your mom’s joint pain impacts her flexibility. Physical therapists show your mom ways to work on flexibility, which can help her be more active. As she gains flexibility and gets more exercise, her muscle strength increases, which is beneficial when it comes to balance and stamina.

Learn Pain Management Techniques

One of the biggest benefits a physical therapist offers is techniques that help ease the pain she experiences every day. Heat therapy, massage, electrical stimulation, and other PT techniques are useful in easing the pain and discomfort that keeps your mom from being active.

Build Stamina

Your mom may find that the discomfort she feels keeps her from doing too much. She will vacuum and get tired or start aching, so she stops. Her physical therapist can help her build stamina. She’s less likely to get tired over time, and that lowers the risk of a fall.

Physical Therapy Aides Help Find Exercises That Work For Her Needs

Your mom has to keep exercising. Her physical therapist will help her find exercises she can do each day. Some stretches or movements may be too painful, leading to your mom avoiding exercise.

When she finds exercises she’s comfortable doing, she’ll be more likely to get enough exercise. The more active she becomes, the easier it is for her to move around and complete daily routines. Her physical therapist teaches her what to do and how to make those exercises effective for her needs.

Talk to our physical therapy office to learn more about the benefits of PT for RA. You can ask questions, schedule a consultation, and help your mom better manage her RA pain.

Sources:  rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Rheumatoid-Arthritis

If you or a family member need to hire Physical Therapy Services in Lauderhill FL, call the caring professionals at Star Multi Care today at (954) 870-4770. We provide service in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Margate, Pompano Beach, and Tamarac.

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Stephen Sternbach

CEO at Star Multi Care Services

With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Star Multi Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Star Multi Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Star Multi Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.

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