Arthritis
Arthritis
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis occurs when one or more of your joints become inflamed, causing pain and/or stiffness that usually gets worse with age.
The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis, also known as the “wear and tear disease”, is a degenerative condition that deteriorates the joint(s) over time. The cartilage (the firm, rubbery material that covers the end of each bone), which acts as a cushion between the joints, slowly breaks down and wears away, causing bone to grind on bone.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where your immune system attacks the lining of the joints (synovium), which in turn wears down the cartilage and bone in the joint.
In both types of arthritis, the joints can become deformed and impair function.
Other types of arthritis can be caused by infections, an underlying disease such as psoriasis or lupus, or in the case of gout, by a build-up of uric acid crystals.
Causes | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention
What Causes Arthritis?
It is not known what causes arthritis, but there are certain risk factors to be aware of that can lead to arthritis:
- Family history
- Increasing age
- Gender – women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more likely to develop gout
- Obesity or being overweight
- Previous injury to a joint
- Repetitive strain to a joint
- Sedentary lifestyle
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis?
Common symptoms of arthritis usually involve the joints, and include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after resting
- Redness
- Restricted range of motion
Concerned about symptoms of arthritis? Book an assessment with a physiotherapist today.
How is Arthritis Treated?
Treatments for arthritis typically include medications, physiotherapy, and surgery, though surgery should be considered only as a last resort, and many drugs carry side effects.
Physiotherapy for Arthritis
Physiotherapy is a drug-free and non-surgical treatment that has been proven to reduce arthritis pain.
The goal of physiotherapy for arthritis is to prevent the progression of the disease, reduce pain, strengthen muscles, and increase range of motion and quality of life.
Depending on the type and severity of your arthritis, physiotherapy can include:
- Stability and endurance exercises
- Stretching, strengthening, and range of motion exercises
- Activity modification and functional retraining
- Splints or braces
- Complementary pain-relieving therapies such as:
- Interferential current therapy (IFC)
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Heat and ice therapy
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
Are you seeking physiotherapy for arthritis treatment? Book an assessment today.
Can Arthritis Go Away on Its Own?
Unfortunately, no. There is no cure for arthritis, but with proper treatment, the disease can be managed effectively and progression stopped or delayed.
Can You Prevent Arthritis?
There are many things you can do to prevent or reduce the chance of developing arthritis, including:
- Exercising regularly, including stretching exercises such as yoga or tai chi (at least 30 minutes every day)
- Eating a non-inflammatory diet (avoiding processed and refined foods and sugar)
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Book a Physiotherapy Consult for Arthritis Today
Concerned about symptoms of arthritis? Book an assessment with a physiotherapist today.