Joint pain can make it difficult to enjoy everyday activities and stay active. If you’re dealing with the constant discomfort of osteoarthritis in your knees, hips, or upper body, Cynergy Physical Therapy has the solutions to relieve pain and restore your mobility.Â
Our highly trained physical and occupational therapists provide specialized, one-on-one care. We'll help you take control of your joint health so you can get back to loving life in New York City and Brooklyn, New York.Â
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA), also called Degenerative Joint Disease, is the most common type of arthritis. It happens when the cartilage that cushions your joints starts to break down and wear away. Cartilage is the smooth tissue that reduces friction between your bones during movement.Â
The most susceptible joints are weight-bearing joints such as knees, hips, and the spine, and can also affect hands and fingers. Over time, due to aging or wear and tear, the cartilage thins out, and the bones start rubbing together. This causes pain, swelling, and discomfort, especially if there’s excess weight on the joints.Â
What Are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis?
The most common symptom of OA is pain in the affected joint after repetitive use. Other symptoms include swelling, warmth, and stiffness after immobility. If you have osteoarthritis in a weight-bearing joint, reducing the demand/weight on the joint can really help with your symptoms.
Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis
Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on managing symptoms, improving mobility, and slowing the condition's progression. Physical therapy is a large part of this approach and includes several different techniques:
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: These exercises target the muscles surrounding the affected joint. Stronger muscles provide better support and reduce strain on the joint, while stretching improves flexibility and range of motion.
- Neuromuscular Re-Education:Â This therapy retrains the muscles and nerves to work together more efficiently. By improving coordination and muscle control, you'll reduce abnormal movement patterns that make your symptoms worse.
- Manual Therapy:Â Hands-on techniques like joint mobilization and distraction improve joint movement and reduce stiffness. By applying controlled pressure and movement, manual therapy can help restore joint function and decrease pain.
- Active Release Techniques® (ART): ART targets soft tissue injuries caused by overuse. It helps break up scar tissue and adhesions in muscles, ligaments, and tendons, relieving tension around the joint and improving mobility.
In addition to physical therapy, maintaining a healthy weight and adjusting activity levels will also play a role in managing osteoarthritis. These interventions work together to relieve pain, improve joint function, and help you lead an active lifestyle.
Patient Testimonials:
"Excellent physical therapists, both in person and virtually. From scheduling to the actual PT sessions, I have found Cynergy to be extremely user friendly. In terms of physical results, they've successfully addressed by issue. I highly recommend, particularly if you are looking for virtual PT."
"Thank you to everyone at Cynergy for an amazing experience and for helping me get back to my active lifestyle so quickly! The front desk staff is very helpful, friendly and professional. A special shout out to my PT Kayla whose expertise and skill with my injury helped me get back onto my feet. Thank You Kyla! I am an active person juggling MMA, Kickboxing, Yoga, Pilates and Running do injuries are bound to happen. I will highly recommend Cynergy to my friends at the club where I train."
Why Choose Cynergy PT?
At Cynergy Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, our care is shaped by the expertise of our founder and CEO, Cynthia Gormezano, PT, MPT. With over two decades of experience in orthopedic and sports injury rehabilitation, Cynthia has built a practice known for its patient-centered approach and proven results. Her background as an endurance athlete and cancer survivor gives her a unique perspective on rehabilitation. She understands the challenges patients face and the importance of getting effective treatment.
Under Cynthia’s leadership, we use the latest therapies and advanced equipment to address conditions like osteoarthritis and more. Our ongoing education and hands-on treatment ensures we provide high-quality care in a supportive environment where we can help patients improve their bodies and lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to See Results From Physical Therapy?
The time frame for improvement varies by individual, but many patients notice relief within a few weeks of consistent physical therapy sessions.
Are There Any Non-Surgical Treatment Options Besides Physical Therapy?
In addition to physical therapy, treatment options include medications, joint injections (such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid), weight management, and assistive devices like braces or orthotics.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is primarily caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. Factors like aging, repetitive movements, joint injuries, and carrying excess weight can contribute to the breakdown of cartilage, leading to osteoarthritis.
What Are the Early Signs of Osteoarthritis?
Early signs often include joint stiffness, mild pain, and discomfort during or after physical activity. You may also experience swelling or a grating sensation when using the joint.
Can Osteoarthritis Be Cured?
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, treatments like physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and medications can help manage symptoms and improve your joint function.
How Is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?
Osteoarthritis is diagnosed through a combination of physical examinations, a review of symptoms, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to assess the extent of cartilage damage.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Want to learn more about your osteoarthritis treatment options and how we can help at Cynergy PT? Call 212-974-7252 to schedule your consultation with one of our providers today! View our New York City locations here.