What Is A Physical Therapist, And Why Do I Need One?

My doctor suggested that I see a physical therapist. What is a physical therapist, and why do I need one?

Physical therapy is the treatment of injuries or disorders using physical methods, such as exercise, massage, or the application of heat. Ultrasound and iontophoresis (discussed later in this question) are other modalities employed by physical therapists. A physical therapist provides these treatments as well as education, instruction, and support for continued mobility.

The goal of physical therapy for people with RA is to get the individual back to the point where he or she can perform normal, everyday activities without difficulty. To reach these goals, the physical therapist may use a variety of techniques.

The goal of physical therapy for people with RA is to get the individual back to the point where he or she can perform normal, everyday activities without difficulty.

To Provide Pain Relief

  • The application of heat packs or heated baths may be used to reduce muscle aches and improve blood circulation to the muscles and other soft tissues.
  • The application of ice packs may be used to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
  • Ultrasound is a technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to increase circulation and reduce pain. These sound waves are transferred to a specific body area via a round-headed probe. They travel deep into tissue (for example, into the muscles), creating gentle heat. In the past, a version of ultrasound termed shortwave diathermy was used as therapy for RA, but it is seldom employed today.
  • Iontophoresis is the process by which drugs—usually dexamethasone and lidocaine—are propelled through the skin into a joint or small body part using a lowlevel electrical current. This process is noninvasive and painless, and it eliminates the potential side effects and adverse reactions that can occur with medications delivered orally or by injection.

To Preserve a Good Range of Motion

  • Stretching can increase the range of motion around joints and reduce stress on the joints.
  • Manual therapy, including massage, may improve or maintain the range of motion.

To Improve Strength and Cardiac Conditioning

  • Aerobic exercises, including cycling and limited walking, promote good physical conditioning.
  • Exercises such as lifting weights and calisthenics may strengthen muscles and improve mobility. Stronger muscles can better stabilize a weakened joint.
  • Water exercises and exercising in a heated pool provide buoyancy that allows your body to exercise without placing pressure on the joints or the spine. This type of exercise is particularly helpful for people with arthritis in their lower back or legs.

To Educate

  • Your physical therapist will provide you with information on which exercises are safe to perform at home and when you should not exercise, such as during periods of severe joint inflammation.
  • The physical therapist can make you aware of areas in your body that need extra work to achieve or maintain mobility.

Physical therapists are professionals who have undergone special training and been certified by a state or accrediting body to design and implement physical therapy programs. They usually obtain a college education and then enter a master's degree program in physical therapy, which can last two to three years. Physical therapists work in a variety of institutions, including hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. They may also work in schools providing assistance to special education students. Finally, some work as independent practitioners who provide therapy in doctors' offices or patients' homes.

Physical therapy is often prescribed by physicians treating RA. Given that RA is a chronic disease that can result in fatigue, stiffness, and immobility, a regular program of exercise and stretching is necessary to increase joint mobility, maintain strength, and prevent weight gain. If your doctor has not suggested this type of therapy, it is a good idea to discuss this topic with him or her.

Physical Therapy—A good physical therapist can evaluate and choose the correct way to reach their goals. I find that application of heat to my sore joints is often my first self treatment. When I'm stiff and aching, I soak my hands in water that is as hot as I can stand it. I use a heating pad for my feet, shoulders, and knees. I use the type of heating pad that has a thermostat, so I can manually control the amount of heat. You should be careful not to fall asleep while using the heating pad, as it can burn your skin.