Equipoise Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy located in Fort Lee, NJ
One of the most important actions you can take to protect arthritic joints is to keep them moving. Physical therapy helps you do just that. Dipty Mali, DPT, MBA, CKTP, and her team of licensed physical therapists at Equipoise Physical Therapy in Jersey City, New Jersey, provide a wide range of therapies designed to strengthen, mobilize, and protect your joints. Every treatment plan is tailored to meet your specific needs. You can rely on this team’s professional skills as well as their dedication to personalized care. Call Equipoise Physical Therapy today for an evaluation or book your visit online.
Arthritis Q & A
What is arthritis?
Simply put, arthritis is joint inflammation that can occur in one or many of your joints. This inflammation damages joint tissue and causes pain. There are more than 100 types of arthritis, but osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common in the United States.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is often referred to as wear-and-tear arthritis and causes the protective cartilage tissue in your joints to break down over time. In a healthy joint, the cartilage absorbs the pressure created by the movement of your joint. When cartilage wears away, inflammation, pain, and stiffness can decrease your ability to move the joint. Infection and injury can speed up this process that’s otherwise associated with aging.
What is rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?
RA is an autoimmune disorder that causes your body’s immune system to attack the tissue in your joints. These tissues produce fluid that nourishes cartilage and lubricates your joints, so they slide smoothly during movement. RA can eventually destroy both bone and cartilage and lead to significant joint deformities.
How can physical therapy help with arthritis?
Physical therapy focuses on your body’s ability to move. Movement can include simple activities such as getting out of a chair easily, walking through your neighborhood, or engaging in a sport or other recreational activity.
Dr. Mali designs a treatment plan that addresses your overall fitness level as well as the joints affected by arthritis. Your plan may include:
- Strengthening exercises
- Soft tissue massage to restore flexibility
- Joint mobilization techniques
- Neuromuscular techniques that relieve muscle spasms
A primary goal during your physical therapy sessions is to teach you how to perform these exercises and movements correctly at home so that you can remain as active as possible.
Following Dr. Mali’s instructions closely when doing your home exercise program is imperative. Skipping steps or moving too quickly or too slowly through the program can cause temporary setbacks and slow your progress.
Don’t ignore joint pain and stiffness caused by arthritis. Schedule an appointment at Equipoise Physical Therapy today. Dr. Mail is there to help. Call the office or book your visit online.
