
How Physical Therapy Helps Arthritis
Arthritis is irritation in a joint that can make movement stiff and sore. Physical therapy targets the controllable drivers of pain and function so you can move with more confidence.
Pain relief without reliance on pills
- Gentle movement restores joint nutrition.
- Manual therapy reduces stiffness.
- Modalities like heat or cold can settle symptoms.
Better mobility and daily function
- Stretching and mobility drills open guarded ranges.
- Gait and posture tweaks reduce joint stress.
- Activity pacing keeps flare risk lower.
Stronger support for your joints
- Progressive strengthening builds capacity.
- Balancing work improves stability.
- Load management helps you do more with less pain.
What to Expect at PT & Chiro of Miami
Plan on a 1 on 1 conversation, a thorough exam, and a simple program you can keep up with at home.
- Evaluation: history, pain map, goals, motion, strength, and movement tests.
- Personal plan: 2 to 3 sessions weekly at first for many people, then taper as you improve.
- Hands-on care: joint and soft tissue techniques as needed to reduce stiffness and pain.
- Exercise coaching: clear reps, sets, tempo, and progressions you can track.
- Joint protection: daily habits, footwear tips, and activity changes that make life easier.
Exercises We Often Use for Arthritis
Knee and Hip
- Quad sets and straight leg raises
- Sit to stand and step-ups
- Hip bridges and clamshells
Shoulder and Hand
- Scapular setting and wall slides
- Rotator cuff isometrics
- Grip and finger mobility drills
Spine
- Pelvic tilts and trunk rotations
- McGill big 3 core routines
- Walking programs and simple cardio
Your plan is tailored to your joint, your baseline, and your response to load.
PT And Chiropractic Together
Some people get the best relief with a coordinated approach. Chiropractic adjustments may help ease joint restrictions. Physical therapy builds strength and movement patterns that help gains last. Our team plans these pieces so your care is cohesive and safe.
Home Strategy Between Visits
- Move often: short walks and mobility snacks during the day.
- Warm up cold joints: gentle heat before activity, cold packs after if sore.
- Respect flares: reduce volume and range, keep light motion, then rebuild.
- Sleep and stress: both shift pain sensitivity. Consistent routines help.
- Footwear: cushioned, supportive shoes can lower joint load.
Quick Answers To Common Questions
- 1. Does PT help osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
- Yes. Plans differ, but the goal remains the same. Reduce pain, improve motion and strength, and protect joints.
- 2. How long until I notice a change?
- Many feel improvement within 2 to 4 weeks with consistent work. Lasting progress builds over months.
- 3. Is it safe to exercise with arthritis?
- Yes, when guided and progressed sensibly. We adjust ranges and loads to avoid flaring symptoms.
- 4. Will insurance cover therapy?
- Coverage varies. Our team can verify your benefits and explain any costs before you start.
- 5. Do I need imaging first?
- Not always. Your evaluation guides the plan. If imaging is warranted, we coordinate it.
Arthritis Care In South Beach, Miami
We serve Miami Beach, South Beach, and nearby Miami neighborhoods. Parking and first-floor access make visits easy. Early and late appointments are available by request.
Schedule online Call or text the clinic
New to us in Miami Beach and looking for a second opinion or a fresh plan? We are happy to help.
Dr. Joseph Hudson
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