Osteo Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. This article will not be addressing other forms of arthritis of which there are over 200 which include conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Anklylosing Spondylitis etc. 
What are the symptoms?
Bone, cartilage, synovium, joint capsule, ligaments and muscles can all be affected. A single joint may be affected or several. Most commonly affected are knees, followed by hips, and then (in no particular order) hands, neck and back.
Symptoms include pain (usually intermittent with good days and bad days), stiffness, loss of range of movement, swelling, warmth and redness. Discomfort is often worse towards the end of the day. Particularly severe arthritis may lead to joints moving out of alignment.
Commonly symptoms are first experienced between the ages of 40 and 60. 12% of those over the age of 65 are symptomatic.
Risk factors
Obesity, trauma (including sports related), repetitive movements, genetics, age, biomechanics.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis rests on history, observation and specific changes on X Ray which include decreased joint space and osteophytes (little bony projections at the margin of the joint). However X Ray changes can be present with no discomfort. There is at present no definitive blood test for Osteoarthritis
Treatment
Your GP and rheumatology consultant are likely to advise on pain killers, anti inflammatories and referral to physiotherapy. Muscle relaxants and surgery are available as a last resort.
Can physiotherapy help?
Yes. By addressing the strength of the muscles that support the affected joint and by mobilising and stretching a stiff, tight joint. Our bodies are designed for movement and lack of movement quickly compounds the pain and damage of the condition.
Biomechanical analysis will determine if there is excess stress being placed on joints by poor general posture, foot posture, stability and strength of the muscular system. This can be rectified with rehabilitation work and possibly orthotics if necessary.
A physiotherapist can also advise you on how to pace your activities so that you don't overdo things, and learn how to recognise when rest is advisable, and which footwear and walking aids may be appropriate.
Although physiotherapy cannot change the disease process it is better than any tablet or medicine in putting you back in charge of your body. It will provide you with the input to help yourself restore physical function and create the best environment to maintain strong muscle and cardiovascular fitness.
What are the symptoms?
Bone, cartilage, synovium, joint capsule, ligaments and muscles can all be affected. A single joint may be affected or several. Most commonly affected are knees, followed by hips, and then (in no particular order) hands, neck and back.
Symptoms include pain (usually intermittent with good days and bad days), stiffness, loss of range of movement, swelling, warmth and redness. Discomfort is often worse towards the end of the day. Particularly severe arthritis may lead to joints moving out of alignment.
Commonly symptoms are first experienced between the ages of 40 and 60. 12% of those over the age of 65 are symptomatic.
Risk factors
Obesity, trauma (including sports related), repetitive movements, genetics, age, biomechanics.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis rests on history, observation and specific changes on X Ray which include decreased joint space and osteophytes (little bony projections at the margin of the joint). However X Ray changes can be present with no discomfort. There is at present no definitive blood test for Osteoarthritis
Treatment
Your GP and rheumatology consultant are likely to advise on pain killers, anti inflammatories and referral to physiotherapy. Muscle relaxants and surgery are available as a last resort.
Can physiotherapy help?
Yes. By addressing the strength of the muscles that support the affected joint and by mobilising and stretching a stiff, tight joint. Our bodies are designed for movement and lack of movement quickly compounds the pain and damage of the condition.
Biomechanical analysis will determine if there is excess stress being placed on joints by poor general posture, foot posture, stability and strength of the muscular system. This can be rectified with rehabilitation work and possibly orthotics if necessary.
A physiotherapist can also advise you on how to pace your activities so that you don't overdo things, and learn how to recognise when rest is advisable, and which footwear and walking aids may be appropriate.
Although physiotherapy cannot change the disease process it is better than any tablet or medicine in putting you back in charge of your body. It will provide you with the input to help yourself restore physical function and create the best environment to maintain strong muscle and cardiovascular fitness.