“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

―Winston S. Churchill

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term for inflammation in the joints—not the bones themselves. It can affect almost any joint in the body, from knees and hips to fingers and the spine. The most common type is osteoarthritis, which often develops gradually as part of the aging process, though younger people can experience it too.

There are many contributing factors:

• Non-modifiable:age, family history, genetics.

• Modifiable:previous injury, excess body weight, inactivity, and repetitive overuse without enough rest.

Common Symptoms

• Morning stiffness or stiffness after periods of rest

• Joint pain or aching, especially after activity

• Swelling or warmth around a joint

• Reduced range of motion

• A sense of weakness or instability

More than32 million U.S. adults live with osteoarthritis, yet the majority lead active, pain-free and independent lives. Arthritis doesn’t automatically equal disability.

Why It’s Not Something to Fear

When many people hear the wordarthritis, they assume life is about to change for the worse. Misconceptions and beliefs passed down from family, friends, or social circles often reinforce the fear that exercise will worsen arthritis, causing many people to avoid activity out of fear that it will make it worse. This avoidance can create what we call“movement freeze”—a cycle of inactivity, stiffness, weakness, and increased symptoms.

But here’s the truth:movement is medicine.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to manage arthritis symptoms and keep doing the things you love. Here’s why:

• ✅Improved joint health:Exercise helps lubricate joints and maintain cartilage health.

• ✅Increased strength:Strong muscles provide better support and stability for joints.

• ✅Less stiffness & pain:Regular movement reduces inflammation and promotes flexibility.

• ✅Confidence to move:A PT provides safe, guided progression tailored to your body.

With the right plan, most people find they can walk farther, climb stairs more easily, play with grandkids, or return to hobbies they thought were off-limits.

Key Takeaways

• Arthritis is common and manageable.

• Having arthritis doesn’t mean giving up activity or living in pain.

• Avoiding exercise can make symptoms worse—the right movement helps.

• Working with a physical therapist ensures safe, effective strategies that keep you moving.

✨Bottom line:Arthritis doesn’t have to define your future. With proper care and guided movement, you can stay active, strong, and independent.

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