Arthritis

There are two major types of arthritis and many less common arthritis like conditions.

Arthritis means inflammation (itis) of a joint. Osteoarthritis is the most common and it is degenerative ‘wear and tear’ of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is less common. It affects younger people and maybe associated with a faulty immune system triggered by hereditary factors and infections.

Osteoarthritis starts as stiffness usually in weight bearing joints such as knees, hips and back and then progresses to pain on movement. The joints then become increasingly swollen and stiff. It is important to know how to manage arthritis by seeking treatment.

Often arthritis is made worse by poor posture, which puts strain on joints causing joint damage. This means identifying mechanical stresses and imbalances and being shown how to correct them. Joint mobilisations, massage, and exercises maintain and increase the range of movement and strengthen the muscles to help protect the joint.

Electrotherapy or acupuncture helps with the inflammation and pain relief.

The good news is physiotherapy treatment can help ease aches and pains from arthritis.