Every day our therapists are treating more and more patients with chronic joint pain.

We notice the biggest reason is related to their diet. Foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, high sugar and refined carbohydrates have been shown to increase inflammation in injured muscles and joints.

Some of these studies conducted have shown that a lack of fruits, vegetables, and nuts in the diet can actually cause joints to break down. An increase in refined grains and lack of fiber intake can expand these inflammatory markers. Additionally, low to moderate sugar sweetened drinks have been shown to increase inflammation even in healthy individuals.

One of the ways improve your diet is to avoid all refined carbohydrates, increase your fruit, nut, and vegetable intakes, and avoid drinking soft drinks. If you are unsure what to do next, then contact one of our therapists at Trilogy Therapy Services. We look forward to hearing from you, please contact us at: (479) 331-3303 or come visit us at our location: 8952 Market Street, Suite 7b, Dover, AR 72837

Isn’t it ironic that with all the advancements in today’s healthcare that something as simple as exercise can create the most measureable benefits to your health? Exercise is a great way to boost your immune system. It also lowers the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, and obesity.

But why don’t people exercise?

Maybe it seems too hard. Maybe it is something else. Maybe they don’t know how to do it. Maybe they don’t think they need it. Regardless of your physical ability, you HAVE TO EXCERCISE. Exercising can help prevent many things. It prevents weight gain and helps maintain weight loss. Worried about disease or something else? No matter your current weight, being active boosts your lipoproteins or “the good cholesterol in your body” and decreases the unhealthy triglycerides. This keeps your blood flowing smoothly and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Exercise is not only healthy physically but also mentally.

Nothing is better for increasing your energy and confidence levels. In a recent study done in 2015 by the American Psychiatric Association, regular exercise can prevent depression and physical activity stimulates the various brain chemicals to make you feel happier and relaxed. You may also feel better about your appearance and a boost in self-esteem.

Even if you have a busy schedule, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day.

If you want to lose weight or meet specific goals, you will need to exercise more. Remember to check in with a Trilogy Therapy Services therapist before starting a new exercise program, especially if you haven’t worked out it in a long time. When you are ready to do so, please contact us at: (479) 331-3303 or come visit us at our location: 8952 Market Street, Suite 7b, Dover, AR 72837

In our first ever Therapy Talk we covered the topic of osteoarthritis. Today we’re going to discuss rheumatoid arthritis and how it can effect you since it is the second most common form of arthritis. This autoimmune disease affects nearly 1.3 million people in the United States, and 75 percent are women. Early signs of this disease typically develop in those between the ages 30 to 60.

How do I tell if I have Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include stiffness and joint inflammation. Other signs are decreased energy levels, loss of appetite, low fever, firm lumps under the skin, and dry eyes and mouth. Your hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles, and knee are most likely affected. Anyone experiencing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis should be checked by your doctor. Early recognition is vital to prevent further damage of cartilage. When there is a loss of cartilage, spacing between bones become smaller and smaller. This not only decreases mobility, but can also lead to joint deformity. Joint damage is extremely painful and cannot be reversed. Sandy Koufax had his Major League Baseball career cut short due to rheumatoid arthritis in his left pitching elbow. Koufax retired from baseball at age 30, after pitching 12 seasons with the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers. Widely considered by most as one of the best pitchers of all time, the six-time all-star was the youngest player ever to be elected in to the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame.

So what does that mean for you?

As we said above, early detection is key. Our physical therapists assess Rheumatoid Arthritis in an ongoing manner. Each patient is evaluated to see how joint flexibility, muscle strength, bone alignment, endurance, mobility, and the ability for normal daily living. It is a delicate balance to enhance your mobility without over tiring oneself or creating arthritis flare ups. The object is to help you maximize your independence and it’s important to treat your arthritis because management of your symptoms preserves and conserves independent living. It can effect anyone, regardless of age and it is important to educate yourself to prevent further problems or prevent potential rheumatoid arthritis. Lastly, though this might seem the hardest and most painful, exercise, exercise, exercise! The results may surprise you but exercising can regularly help lubricate joints and prevent further and excessive stiffness. Working out helps strengthen your muscles. Your joints rely on this as a kind of continuous support because it means less work is put on them and they can fully function with less imitation. So it is important to exercise, but make sure you do it properly and safely.

Finally, if you receive treatment for your rheumatoid arthritis, you are more likely to have an active life and are able to participate in various social and work activities. So when you are ready to contact someone in the Russellville, Dover, Little Rock areas, please give us a call at: (479) 331-3303 or come visit us at our location: 8952 Market Street, Suite 7b, Dover, AR 72837

We look forward to seeing you soon and have a great week.