Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of disability in the older population, effecting more than 300 million people worldwide.

A number of factors can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis (OA) including genetics, obesity and past joint injury. It is a condition which involves the whole joint, including cartilage degradation, bone remodelling, osteophyte formation, and synovial inflammation. It can affect any synovial joint but most commonly affects the knees, hips and hands.

Signs and symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling and loss of normal joint function.

Treatment cannot help to cure osteoarthritis but it can help to manage your symptoms and improve your functional capacity. Evidence based treatment guidelines:

• Exercise is the gold standard treatment approach and strongly recommended in all guidelines

• Weight loss for patients who are overweight. 5% weight loss can provide a large improvement in pain

• Medication can provide a temporary improvement in pain

• Cortisone injections can provide short term relief

• Hand splints can help to reduce pain in the CMJ (thumb joint)

Exercising with OA

• Research has shown that exercise is the most effective treatment for reducing pain and improving function and movement in patients with OA

• Research shows there is no one option when it comes to exercise, the most important factor is finding something you enjoy

• Aerobic (walking or cycling), strength-based training, hydrotherapy and Thai Chi are all strongly recommended

• Benefits:

-       Exercise increases the circulation of synovial fluid, helping to lubricate your joints, keeping them more mobile

-       Strengthening your muscles can help to reduce the load through the joint

 Book an appointment with Evolve Physio & Pilates today to find out more.