While arthritis is a painful and sometimes debilitating
condition, our comprehensive rehabilitation program can teach
you how to live with it. The program is directed by a licensed
physical therapist with specialized training in the treatment
of adults with rheumatologic conditions.
We give you the tools to improve your mobility, strength,
and balance, while learning how to manage your condition. Our
thorough approach includes land and aquatic therapeutic
exercise, arthritis education, and assessment for appropriate
assistive equipment.
You will undergo a physical therapy evaluation and a limited
bicycle stress test. We will then develop a personalized
treatment plan for you, which may include land-based exercise
-- including stretching, strengthening, and/or endurance -- as
well as pool-based exercise, such as the Arthritis
Foundation-approved aquatic class. So that you maintain and
improve the gains you make at the Duke Health and Fitness
Center, we will develop an exercise program for use outside of
the center.
We also offer informative lectures on topics including
anatomy and physiology, pain management, and related topics
such as osteoporosis. We also offer a graduate program for
clients who have completed the arthritis rehabilitation program
so that they may continue their participation at the Duke
Health and Fitness Center.
The arthritis rehabilitation group meets Monday, Wednesday,
and Friday mornings, with the introductory program typically
lasting two to three months. The schedule is as follows:
| Time |
Activity |
| 10:30-11:15 a.m. |
Lecture (Mondays) |
| 9:30-9:45 a.m. |
Check-in |
| 9:30-11:15 a.m. |
Land-based exercise |
| 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. |
Pool-based exercise |
| 12:15-12:30 p.m. |
Change and check out |
To schedule an evaluation appointment, call
919-660-6660.
Please note that we will need you to bring a prescription
for physical therapy evaluation and treatment from a
rheumatologist, orthopaedist, or primary care physician. This
prescription should also list the type of arthritis from which
you suffer.
We also will need a copy of your laboratory test results
from the previous 12 months, the most recent clinic notes from
your doctor, and the results of a limited bicycle stress test
if you underwent one during the previous 12 months.
Costs are based on services rendered. Although Medicare and
insurance companies reimburse much of the cost of the arthritis
rehabilitation program, a co-payment is sometimes required by
some insurance plans. Our insurance specialist can assist you
with insurance issues, if necessary. Simply call
919-660-6603.
For questions or details about the arthritis rehabilitation
program, call Emily West, MPT, at
919-660-6659.
Locations
This service is available at:
