The Role of Physical Therapy in Long-Term Joint and Muscle Health

The latticework of muscles, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and bursa attached to the numerous types of joints and bones to make up the vital musculoskeletal system. Also referred to as the locomotor system, it enables movement and plays a crucial role in supplying and forming new blood cells, storing minerals, and protecting essential bodily structures. 

Everything, from lifting a ball to running a mile, requires this system to function correctly, and joint pain and other issues can hinder basic functions and limit movement. To prevent the problems with joint conditions and keep things moving smoothly for as long as possible, let’s show you what physical therapy can do to stay on your feet.

Residents of Fort Worth, Texas, struggling with joint issues that affect mobility and hinder routine activities can rely on Dr. Joseph Daniels and the experienced team at Southwest Orthopedic Associates for help.

Reasons for joint problems

We use our joints all the time, and over the years, we encounter certain types of injury regularly, like:

• Sprains and strains: stretching or possible tearing of your ligaments or tendons

• Fractures: splinters and cracks in bone that can compromise limbs and joints

• Osteoarthritis: wear and tear causing cartilage loss in joints, making bones rub together 

• Tendonitis: inflammation of tendons, leading to pain and swelling

• Gout: excess uric acid in joints causes stiffness and swelling in joints 

• Rheumatoid arthritis: a joint-damaging immune system disorder 

Understanding physical therapy

This broad term encompasses a wide range of exercises, manual treatments, and therapies designed to relax muscles, restore joint function, and alleviate pain. Physical therapy is highly prevalent in use for recovering from injury, restoring normal bodily function after surgery, and helping people with chronic issues due to illness or major accidents.

No two people have the same experience with physical therapy, as everyone’s needs are unique. We create personalized regimens and make recommendations tailored to your health and level of physical activity. Our options include hydrotherapy, heat and cold therapy, massage therapy, strength training, numerous exercises, stretching, and regenerative medicine.

How it helps long-term joint health

Exercise and general physical activity will always play a role in staying healthy, and while we can manage acute injuries, accidents, and post-surgery care, physical therapy also helps: 

• Reduce your overall pain, which reduces your dependence on medications for relief
• Improve balance and coordination
• Retain physical health as you get older
• Reduce the chances of falling
• Relieve stiffness in joints

This work also helps maintain your circulation, which is beneficial to your cardiovascular health. Injuries and illnesses can lead you to visit us for rehabilitation, but physical therapy is a great tool to help you enjoy a long, healthy life. To find out more, schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniels and his team at Southwest Orthopedic Associates today.