Rehab

Physical therapy benefits arthritis sufferers

Rehab Regs, February 17, 2005

After recent reports of a link between heart attacks and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain and inflammation, the American Physical Therapy Association is promoting physical therapy as an alternative, according to Cardiovascular Device Liability Week. For osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the cartilage and bone, physical therapist intervention may include manual therapy, excercises for strength, flexibility, range of motion, and the use of devices designed to rest or support the joint, such as orthotics or splints. For pain of a "mechanical" origin, like back, shoulder, or knee pain, physical therapy also involves functional training, according to Cardiovascular Device Liability Week.

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