It's understandable that physical therapy (PT) for sore hands and wrists can feel challenging, especially when the pain and stiffness from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) make movements difficult. Here are a few thoughts and suggestions based on the context provided:
1. **Patience and Consistency**: PT often requires time to see Show Full Answer
It's understandable that physical therapy (PT) for sore hands and wrists can feel challenging, especially when the pain and stiffness from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) make movements difficult. Here are a few thoughts and suggestions based on the context provided:
1. **Patience and Consistency**: PT often requires time to see improvements. Consistency is key, even if progress seems slow.
2. **Customized Exercises**: Ensure your physical therapist is aware of your specific challenges. They can tailor exercises to your needs, possibly focusing on gentle range-of-motion activities that might be more manageable and gradually increase in intensity as your tolerance improves.
3. **Use of Splints**: As mentioned, using splints can help improve function and slow the progression of deformity in the hands. They might also provide some relief during exercises.
4. **Heat and Cold Therapy**: Applying heat can ease pain and relax tense muscles before exercises, making PT more comfortable. Cold therapy after exercises can help reduce inflammation and soreness.
5. **Assistive Devices**: Using RA-friendly assistive devices can make everyday tasks less painful and might also aid in your PT exercises by reducing strain on your joints.
6. **Feedback to Your Therapist**: Communicate openly with your therapist about what's working and what isn't. They can adjust your program as needed to ensure it's both effective and doable.
Remember, managing RA in hands and wrists is a multifaceted approach that includes more than just PT. Combining various strategies might yield better overall results in managing pain and improving function.
March 25, 2024
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