Physiotherapy - Osteoarthritis Therapy Session 1

What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?

•    Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis
•    It was previously described as ‘wear and tear’
•    Articular cartilage is soft cushioning between joints and if damaged cannot regrow on its own
•    OA is an inflammatory process which when triggered, releases proteins which break down collagen and degrade cartilage. Over time this can cause bone to be exposed and as process continues to occur, decreases joint space and production of osteophytes
•    Muscles that move the joint may weaken and become thin or wasted
•    OA is a slow process that develops over many years
•    OA generally causes small changes that affect only part of the joint
•    However, OA can be more severe and extensive

Diagnosing arthritis

Either:

•    Clinically – aged 45+, have joint pain with activity and no morning stiffness or morning stiffness that lasts less than 30mins
•    Diagnostic – via X-ray

Signs and symptoms

•    OA is usually gradual, increasing over months or years
•    Joints become stiff and painful, limiting mobility
•    Pain is worse with exercise and at the end of day
•    Pain after rest, usually works off once the joint gets moving again
•    Occasionally the joint may give way due to weak muscles
•    Changes in weather can make the pain worse
•    Often joint appears swollen, while the muscles appear thinner

Causes

•    Older age
•    Gender
•    Obesity
•    Joint injuries
•    Repeated stress on the joint
•    Genetics
•    Bone deformities
•    Certain metabolic diseases

How can I help my arthritis?

Latest evidence from NICE updated in 2022:

•    Exercise
•    Appropriate footwear
•    Weight loss/diet