Medicare consists of four primary parts, each offering different types of coverage to address various healthcare needs. You do not need to have all 4 parts. Most people have either Part A, B, and D with a supplemental medigap plan OR Part C. They are separate areas of coverage:

• Part A (Hospital Insurance): Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services. It's often referred to as hospital insurance.
• Part B (Medical/Outpatient Insurance): Part B covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. It helps pay for services and supplies that are medically necessary to treat a disease or condition.
• Part C (Medicare Advantage/Replacement): Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, offers an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans often include coverage for Parts A and B, and sometimes prescription drug coverage (Part D), along with additional benefits like vision, dental, and hearing. *This REPLACES Part A and Part B*
• Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Part D provides prescription drug coverage, helping to lower the cost of prescription medications. It's available to everyone with Medicare through private insurance companies that contract with Medicare.

When you enroll into Medicare. You will enroll into traditional Medicare (also called original Medicare) which is Part A and Part B. With traditional Medicare, you can add a prescription drug coverage plan (Part D) or a supplemental coverage plan.

Pain Management: Physical therapists can employ various techniques to alleviate pain associated with osteoarthritis. These may include manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilization, as well as modalities like heat or cold therapy.

Improving Range of Motion and Flexibility: Physical therapy exercises are designed to help maintain or improve the range of motion and flexibility of affected joints. Gentle stretching exercises can help prevent stiffness and improve joint function.

Strengthening Muscles: Strengthening the muscles surrounding the affected joint is essential for providing support and stability. Physical therapists can design exercises targeting specific muscle groups to improve strength, which can help reduce pain and enhance joint function.

Joint Protection Techniques: Physical therapists can educate individuals about joint protection techniques to minimize stress on affected joints during daily activities. This may involve teaching proper body mechanics, posture, and techniques for lifting and carrying objects.

Functional Training: Physical therapists focus on improving functional abilities necessary for daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting up from a chair. They may incorporate exercises that mimic real-life movements to enhance overall function and independence.

Assistive Devices: Physical therapists can assess the need for assistive devices such as braces, walking aids, and bathroom equipment to restore function in a safe manner. They can also provide guidance on the proper use of these devices to optimize their effectiveness.

Education and Self-Management: Physical therapists play a vital role in educating individuals about their condition and empowering them with self-management strategies. This may include advice on lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active, as well as techniques for managing pain and fatigue.

Overall, physical therapy is a key component of comprehensive osteoarthritis management, helping individuals alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance their overall quality of life.