ARTHRITIS - Role
of Physiotherapy
In management
of arthritis physiotherapy plays very important role.
The following
modalities are commonly employed,
Electrical
Therapy
- Short-wave
diathermy.
- Microwave
diathermy.
- Ultrasonic
therapy.
- Interference
therapy.
These help
in reducing pain, swelling and give feeling of well being. Avoid
self use. Treatment must always be given by a qualified therapist.
- Cryotherapy:
Application of cold to reduce joint inflammation.
- Wax
baths: To reduce swelling and to improve range of motion.
Exercises
- Mobilising:
To improve range of motion.
- Muscle
developing:
To improve muscle strength.
- Passive
stretching:
To correct contractures.
- CPM:
Continuous Passive Motion, to improve the range of movement
with help of machine.
Splints
& Supports
To prevent
deformities, to reduce pain, to support unstable joints.
Modified
Appliances
To help
in carrying out day to day activities even with painful deformed
joints.
- Thicker
grips on spoon to help get the grip even with deformed fingers.
- Larger
door knobs.
- Extended
grips to open screw cap bottles.
A calf compression
device will be applied to both the legs gently massaging your
calves to avoid clotting of blood and preventing complication
of deep vein thrombosis.
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