SOMA Living May 2025

FROM THE DOCTOR MAY IS ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH: FIGHTING PAIN WITH PHYSICAL THERAPY Arthritis Awareness Month in May highlights a prevalent but often misunderstood condition affecting millions worldwide. Over 58 million adults in the United States struggle with arthritis, making it the nation’s leading disability cause. Yet, despite challenges like joint pain and reduced mobility, hope exists through physical therapy. Arthritis encompasses over 100 conditions affecting joints and tissues, with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis among the most common. These conditions can cause joint swelling, pain, and reduced range of motion, potentially leading to significant disability. Physical therapists, experts in movement, enhance joint mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and develop personalized strategies to reduce joint stress. They employ manual therapy, gentle stretching, and techniques like heat/ cold applications, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to ease discomfort naturally. Specific exercises maintain or restore joint flexibility, making movements easier. Weak muscles strain joints; thus, a tailored strengthening program builds muscle support to protect joints and reduce inflammation. Physical therapy doesn’t end in the clinic; it’s about empowering individuals with tools and knowledge for symptom management. Therapists teach body mechanics, joint protection techniques, and lifestyle changes. Arthritis can alter balance and increase fall risks; thus, therapists address these through balance training and functional movements. If arthritis affects you or a loved one, now is a prime time to explore physical therapy. Consult your healthcare provider for a referral to a licensed physical therapist. With proper care and guidance, reducing pain and improving function is achievable, allowing reclamation of independence.

South Orange Rehabilitation & Wellness We provide professional, individualized and effective physical therapy. Our health and wellness interventions promote healthy living and enhanced quality of life for all athletes and patients.

Specializing in: • Post Surgical Knee & Shoulder • Spinal Decompression for Herniated and Bulging Discs • Cold Laser to Increase Healing

SouthOrangeRehab.com (973) 761-0077 177 Valley Street, South Orange, New Jersey 07079

Dr. Michael Mozia PT, DPT, OCS, Cert.MDT, CSCS 2011-Bachelor of Science in Biology-Seton Hall University. 2014-Doctoral Degree in Physical Therapy-S Seton Hall University 2014-Recipient of the American Physical Therapy Associate Minority Initiative Award.

MAY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 27

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