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programs
Self-Evaluations:
Fall Prevention
Urinary Incontinence
Osteoporosis
Osteoarthritis
Other Resources:
Helpful Links
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Osteoarthritis,
(Degenerative Joint Disease), can affect one or more joints, usually a knee, a shoulder, or a hip. Some studies have
shown that the more stress put on a joint, the worse the arthritis becomes.
The major shock-absorbing mechanism of the joint, which is destroyed in osteoarthritis, is the MUSCLE, not the cartilage.
The damage to the cartilage is due to weak muscles no longer supporting the joint and forcing excessive wear and tear on
the structure’s cartilage.
Appropriate strengthening of the muscles surrounding the joint may decrease the pain and prevent exacerbation of joint
inflammation. Pain reduction through strengthening allows you to control your functional levels and not allow the arthritis
to control you.
Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy can assist you in designing a pain free lifestyle through skilled exercises, pain
reduction modalities, adaptive equipment for joint protection and energy conservation.
Identifying your risk factors of pain controlling your functional choices is an important step toward treatment and prevention.
The Questionnaire below will help to identify your risk factors.
STRATEGIES
- Talk to your doctor about the factors you identify.
- Talk to your Sierra therapy team – We can assist in reducing the debilitating effects of
osteoarthritis and set up a safe treatment strategy designed specifically for you.
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