Arthritis

This is a term used to describe a broad range of joint disorders which include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis would be the most common form of arthritis. This is when the cartilage lining the bones of a joint breaks down due to constant wear and tear. The most common joints affected with this tend to be the knees and hips due to the fact that they are used, and often abused by us everyday. When osteoarthritis affects a joint, it will usually be inflamed, swollen, painful and most likely stiff. While physiotherapy cannot rebuild the cartilage that is lost, it can help reduce pain, increase range of movement and help maximize function.

Another type of this condition is rheumatoid arthritis. This is different from osteoarthritis in the fact that it is a systemic inflammatory condition. It is characterized by pain and inflammation in the joints with the most commonly affected areas being the hands, wrists, shoulders, toes, feet and knees. As rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic condition, the body attacks the membrane surrounding the affected joint. This causes an inflammatory response which can further damage the joint. Physiotherapy can help reduce pain and swelling, improve movement, strength and function and help prevent deformity.

If you are suffering from arthritis-related pain, book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists. They will be able to help reduce your pain and improve function