Physical therapy services in Augusta have a number of benefits for people living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Lupus patients struggle with inflammation, joint pain, and other physical symptoms of the condition. Augusta physical therapy can help improve these symptoms and make the pain easier to manage.
Here’s how:
Lupus and Physical Therapy
A physical therapist in Augusta, GA, will start with evaluating their patients. This evaluation is multi-faceted and focuses on the following areas:
- Coordination and balance
- Strength and mobility
- Muscle function
- Posture
- Respiration
The widespread inflammation caused by lupus affects these factors either directly or indirectly. For example, inflammation in the joints adversely affects your posture, which can then lead to problems with coordination and balance.
Following the evaluation, physical therapists make a customized treatment plan that’s tailored to their patient’s specific needs and challenges.
Physical Therapy Treatments
Physical therapy does a lot more than offer treatment for musculoskeletal pain. It’s also used to improve the overall conditioning and health of the body.
Physical therapy treatments for lupus patients are designed to achieve the following goals:
- Reducing inflammation and swelling
- Treating pain caused by lupus flare-ups
- Improving endurance and strength
- Correcting posture, balance, and coordination
- Conserving energy through better movement
- Improving fitness, independence, and quality of life
These goals are accomplished using a variety of physical therapy treatments and modalities:
- Massage therapy helps reduce inflammation
- Cryotherapy and thermotherapy helps with pain and swelling
- Exercise therapy improves endurance and strength
- Manual therapy helps correct posture imbalances
- Overall independence and quality of life are improved by teaching the patient how to move in more energy-efficient ways
Other Considerations
If lupus complications are preventing or limiting normal walking, physical therapists also teach patients the correct use of walking aids.
Many physical therapists conduct some of their physical therapy treatments in a pool. Water provides natural support due to its buoyancy and is very comforting for inflamed joints.
Over time, an Augusta physical therapist can also assist lupus patients with the appropriate pain management techniques, so they’ll be better prepared in the event of a flare-up.
Choosing a Physical Therapist for Lupus
Many physical therapists work extensively with lupus patients and develop a deep understanding of what it takes to manage the condition and its symptoms.
When choosing a physical therapist, it’s always better to work with a therapist who has the relevant experience, as this ensures a positive outcome.
Healing Hands is one of the most trusted physical therapy clinics in Augusta, GA. We offer special payment plans for patients with no insurance or high insurance deductibles and also offer transportation to our facility to make your physical therapy experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
Our team of highly experienced physical therapy experts in Augusta offers auto accident injury rehab, post-operative rehab, sports injury treatment therapy, and physical therapy for women’s health. Book your FREE evaluation and discovery session by contacting us today.