Physical Therapy for Knee Arthritis
Painful knee arthritis can keep you from being as active as you need to be. You may not walk as much. You may not want to go up and down stairs because of pain. But when you don’t move that knee as much, the muscles around it can shorten and get weaker.
A physical therapist can work with you to make a treatment plan that fits your problem and needs.
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is a treatment for health problems that make it hard to move and do daily tasks. It can help:
- Manage chronic (long-term) health problems like arthritis
- Make daily tasks easier, like walking, going up stairs, or getting in and out of bed
- Ease pain
- Prevent falls
- Heal from injuries
- Heal after some surgeries
Physical therapy may be used alone or with other treatments.
Does SFHP Cover Physical Therapy?
Yes, SFHP covers physical therapy when it is medically necessary (needed). Medically necessary care is when:
- It is reasonable and needed to protect your life
- It keeps you from getting very ill or disabled
- It lessens severe pain from a diagnosed disease, illness, or injury
- If you are under age 21 and you need to fix or relieve a physical illness or condition
You can learn from your physical therapist:
- How your knee works and what arthritis does to the joint
- Ways to put less stress on your knee, such as carrying lighter loads, losing extra weight, or using a cane
- How to use heat or cold at home to help your pain
- Tips for activities and exercises that will make your knee stronger
How To See a Physical Therapist
Physical therapists are specialists that help with movement. They are covered by SFHP when medically necessary.
You will need a referral from your primary care provider* (PCP) to see a physical therapist. Once you get a referral from your PCP, you have the right to meet with a physical therapist within 15 working days.
*A primary care provider (PCP) is your main doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner in charge of your health care.
