We all know how important physical activity is for our physical health, mental health and for improving our body composition, but it can be difficult to get moving if you’re dealing with osteoarthritis of the knee. Fortunately, it is possible to manage and even rehabilitate knee osteoarthritis. Athletic therapy can help you take charge of your health and get back to being active.
Knee osteoarthritis is wearing of the cartilage in the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints of the knee that lead to an inflammatory response. This joint degeneration and inflammation can lead to the development of bone spurs and narrowing of the joint space. It is commonly due to excess daily wear and tear, joint trauma and excessive strain on the knee joints.
Physical activity that does not excessively stress the knee joints can actually promote circulation and improve the healing environment, resulting in increased mobility and reduced pain. Increasing physical activity also helps with weight loss, which also reduces joint stress. Rehabilitation for knee osteoarthritis with an Athletic Therapist involves an exercise program to increase joint strength and control, correction of foot alignment and biomechanics, and manual therapies to improve joint mobility and reduce pain. Your athletic therapist can help guide you so you know the right types of exercise to be doing to reduce knee pain and promote circulation and healing.
We can help make sure you are getting the most out of your physical activity create an individualized plan to address your specific needs and enhance your overall wellbeing. Call us today at 403.229.0129 or email me here.
Crystal Bartkowski
Certified Athletic Therapist