Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful condition to live with. But, many people have found physical therapy helpful for treating the symptoms of this condition. There are many physical therapy techniques that are commonly used in rheumatoid arthritis treatment plans. One technique you may not have heard about is whole body vibration, or vibration therapy. Vibration therapy can provide several benefits to rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy. Here are two of the benefits this treatment can offer:
1. Bone density maintenance
One issue that many rheumatoid arthritis patients face is low bone density. This can have a negative impact on their daily life and their rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy. For instance, low bone density often leads to increased pain. It has also been known to make it harder to maintain good posture. There’s also a greater risk of bone fractures when you have low bone density.
Rheumatoid arthritis patients are typically already dealing with pain and mobility restrictions, and low bone density can magnify these problems even more. Vibration therapy has been shown to boost the production of bone cells. This can help people with rheumatoid arthritis maintain a higher bone density. It can also help reduce the symptoms of low bone density.
2. Improved muscle strength
Another issue that people with rheumatoid arthritis typically face is decreased muscle mass. The main reason for this is because it’s harder for patients with this condition to move around, and this lack of movement leads to less muscle. Rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy programs help counter muscle loss with a variety of therapeutic exercises. However, using vibration therapy can be an alternative to therapeutic exercise.
Vibration therapy uses a device called a vibration plate. This device sends certain frequencies of vibration through the body when you stand on it. As a result of the vibrations, the muscles in your body must work to keep you upright and stable. This is typically accomplished with small muscle movements, but these small movements can help strengthen the muscles without the stress other types of exercise place on the joints.
Add vibration therapy to rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy plans at SOL Physical Therapy
At SOL Physical Therapy, we know that there are many challenges facing rheumatoid arthritis patients every day. That’s why we’re proud to offer personalized treatment plans that are intended to reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain and improve your ability to move. The benefits our plans are designed to offer come from the multiple therapy methods they incorporate, such as:
Are you ready to get a better quality of life with rheumatoid arthritis? Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.
