Can Physio Help With Osteoarthritis?

A common question that I get asked in the clinic is whether Physio will help with pain caused by osteoarthritis. 

Do you suffer from arthritis - maybe in your knees or hips for example? Then stick around.

I’m Dane from lift Physiotherapy and Performance, and when I see people with arthritis, they often ask me whether Physio can actually help - This is because they’ve been told that arthritis is a degenerative condition, it’s wear and tear, or even that their joints are “bone on bone”, and what exactly can you do about that!?! They have even been told that they are on a one way street to “joint replacement” town and that there is nothing they can do about it.

And hey - arthritis can suck - it can cause your joints to become sore, stiff, swollen and painful, and prevent you from doing the activities that you love.  

The good news is that although we may not be able to reverse the effects of time, there is a huge amount of research evidence to show that physiotherapy, and in particular incorporating a tailored, progressive strength training program can have fantastic effects on the symptoms of joint arthritis.

This is because although we can't undo what is going on INSIDE the joint, what we can do is build up and strengthen all the muscles and tissues surrounding the joint, to support your joint and make it stronger.

What is the difference between arthritis and osteoarthritis?

Both arthritis and osteoarthritis are conditions that affect the joints, causing pain and stiffness. However, there are some key differences between the two conditions. Arthritis is a general term that refers to any condition that causes inflammation in the joints. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, ranging from autoimmune diseases to infections. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is a specific type of arthritis that is caused by the deterioration of cartilage in the joints. Cartilage is a tough, flexible tissue that helps to cushion the joints and allows them to move smoothly. When cartilage breaks down, it can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that typically affects older adults, but it can also be caused by injury or overuse.

What is the main cause of osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people each year. The exact cause of osteoarthritis is still not fully understood, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, age, and previous joint injury.

One of the most significant risk factors is age - as people get older, they are more likely to develop osteoarthritis. Other risk factors include obesity, joint injury, and repetitive stress on the joints. One of the most common symptoms of osteoarthritis is joint pain, which can make everyday activities difficult or impossible to perform. In addition, osteoarthritis can also lead to deformity and immobility of the affected joints. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for those who suffer from it.

What is the best treatment for osteoarthritis?

The best treatment for osteoarthritis depends on the severity of the condition. For mild symptoms, over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may be enough to provide relief. More severe cases may require prescription medication or injections.

Physical therapy can also be helpful in reducing pain and improving range of motion. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the damaged joint tissue. No matter what treatment is used, it is important to take care of the joints by maintaining strength in the muscles around the joints and a healthy weight range. With the right treatment plan, it is possible to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis and improve quality of life.

What are the main symptoms of osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is characterized by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones, as well as by the formation of new bone tissue at the joint margins. The main symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. The pain is often worse with weight-bearing activity or at the end of the day. The stiffness usually improves with movement, but may worsen after periods of inactivity. Range of motion is often most limited in the morning, but improves as the day goes on. As the disease progresses, the symptoms may become more constant and severe. In addition, osteoarthritis can also lead to deformity and immobility of the affected joints.

How does body weight and exercise affect osteoarthritis?

While osteoarthritis can affect people of any age, weight, or activity level, some risk factors can increase your chances of developing the condition. One of the most significant risk factors is excess body weight. Studies have shown that each additional pound of body weight puts additional stress on the joints, particularly the knees and hips. This extra stress can lead to the breakdown of cartilage, which is the smooth, protective tissue that covers the ends of bones. Exercise is another important factor in the development of osteoarthritis. Regular exercise helps to maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength, both of which can help to prevent the condition.

Is there any alternative treatment for osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a condition that can cause pain and stiffness in the joints. It is most common in older adults, but it can also occur in younger people who have had an injury to the joint. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are treatments that can help to relieve the symptoms. The most common treatment is medication, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Exercise is also often recommended as a way to improve joint function and flexibility. However, some people may prefer to try alternative treatments such as acupuncture or massage. While there is no scientific evidence that these treatments are effective, some people find them helpful in managing their symptoms. Ultimately, the best treatment for osteoarthritis is the one that works best for the individual.

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects the joints. The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary, but they usually include pain, stiffness, and swelling. In some cases, the affected joint may also feel warm to the touch. Diagnosing osteoarthritis typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. The physical examination can help to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms. Taking a medical history can also be helpful, as osteoarthritis is more likely to develop in people who have a family history of the condition. Imaging tests such as an X-ray may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Once osteoarthritis has been diagnosed, treatment typically focuses on managing the symptoms as best as possible.

When should I see my physio if I am concerned about osteoarthritis?

As a general rule, you should see your physio if you are experiencing any persistent pain or stiffness in the joints. If you have a family history of osteoarthritis, are overweight, or have suffered a previous injury to the joint, you may be at increased risk of developing the condition and should therefore see your physio sooner rather than later. Your physio will be able to diagnose osteoarthritis through a physical examination and X-rays, and will develop a treatment plan to help relieve your symptoms and improve your joint function.

Can osteoarthritis be prevented?

While there is no surefire way to prevent osteoarthritis, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the condition. For example, maintaining a healthy weight puts less strain on joints, while regular exercise helps to keep joints flexible and strengthens the muscles that support them. Avoiding injury to joints is also important, as trauma can increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis later in life. Furthermore, people with certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, may be more likely to develop osteoarthritis and should take extra care to protect their joints. Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent osteoarthritis, taking these measures can help reduce the risk of developing the condition.

Is there surgery for osteoarthritis?

There are a variety of surgical options available for treating osteoarthritis, depending on the extent of joint damage and pain. In some cases, joint replacement surgery may be recommended. This involves removing the damaged joint and replacing it with an artificial joint made from metal, plastic, or ceramic. Joint replacement surgery can be effective in reducing pain and improving joint function. However, it is a major surgery that requires a lengthy recovery period. In other cases, less invasive procedures such as a joint arthroscopy may be recommended. These procedures have been shown to be no better than conservative management for the treatment of osteoarthritis, but they typically have a shorter recovery time than joint replacement surgery. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best surgical option for your individual case.

Which joints are most commonly affected in osteoarthritis?

The most commonly affected joints in osteoarthritis are the knee, hip, and shoulder. However, the finger joints are also frequently affected.  Osteoarthritis typically affects only one joint at a time, although it is possible for the condition to develop in multiple joints simultaneously.

Arthritis is a debilitating condition that can make it difficult for people to complete everyday tasks. Fortunately, there are treatments available to help reduce the pain and improve quality of life. If you or someone you know suffers from arthritis, please consult with a healthcare practitioner to discuss your treatment options.