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Arthritis sufferers benefit from new physical therapy  by Chris West Public Relations There is a new hope in treating the aching joints caused by arthritis. A workout. And while this doesn't mean running out to the gym for the average sets and reps, it does include some of the same basic principles. “The program is patient-centered and designed to work on strengthening problem areas,” said Claire Jaudon, physical therapist. “It is unique in that the participation in the program is based upon what the patient wants to accomplish.” Born from a study of rheumatoid arthritis sufferers, Jaudon realized that a healthy workout would offer benefits to all arthritis patients in the community and could seek to fulfill early intervention for the entire arthritic population. The program's inception would create a regimen that could be adjusted and modified to any arthritic patient regardless of age or individual personal goals. While it is not the only arthritis treatment program available, it is the only land-based program in the lowcountry. Aquatic workout programs exist, but do not simulate everyday situations in which an inflamed joint would have to work. “Being land-based makes the experience more like everyday activity. Treatment in the water renders a different environment in which affected joints encounter less resistance and weight and being submerged relieves pressure on the joints. Outside of the water allows for treatment under normal body weight and gravity. This will show the effects on problem joints under everyday activity,” she said.  The program begins with a doctor’s referral and an initial consultation to assess the patient’s needs. From there personal goals are established to the patient’s wants. This will determine their workout regimen. The physical therapist will then instruct according to the decisions of the patient and caregiver, but also assess the acuteness of the disease process and pain level.  “Goals are established based on the wants of each individual patient. Some want to get back on the golf course and some simply want to be able to get out to their mailboxes or be able to cook a meal for their family,” Jaudon said. “The goals are relative to each patient and a workout regimen is catered to helping them achieve those goals.” The program is assigned to the level of the patient where strengthening, stretching, range of motion and cardiovascular endurance are stressed. After the initial four week program is complete, a take-home video and workout regimen are sent with the patient to continue the treatment at home. Patients are usually required to adhere to the regimen for the rest of their lives to guarantee positive results within their treatment. The program, though only two weeks old, has been met with positive reaction. Jaudon has her hands full with her seven current patients, yet this guarantees one-on-one interaction between patient and caregiver. Jaudon expects further interest “as the program grows, requiring more physical therapists to handle the patient population.” “The program lends therapy to the areas of the body affected by arthritis but also guarantees a healthy whole-body workout experience. The unique nature of the program targets an audience that doesn’t get the needed attention it deserves,” she said. For more information on the arthritis program, contact Claire Jaudon at 573-1513.