At this time, it is estimated that 27 million Americans have some form of osteoarthritis (OA). Arthritis is a term to describe inflammation of the joints. Some factors that increase your risk for OA include age, genetics, former injury, occupation, sports, and obesity. Physical therapy can help improve the symptoms people with OA may be experiencing while promoting a healthy lifestyle to decrease the risk factors for OA. A physical therapist will sit down with you and discuss what limitations or restrictions you may be having due to your arthritis symptoms, and you will develop individualized goals to help restore your function with your daily activities. Physical therapists will educate you on proper posture and body mechanics during common movements to help decrease any unnecessary stresses placed on your joints. We also work to improve the mobility and motion of your affected joints and improve the strength to help give the joint as much support as possible. Your therapist will develop an individualized exercise program with you to help you reach your goals with you OA. OA can’t be completely prevented, but you can work to slow the progression and become more functional with less symptoms around your joints with your physical therapist.