Introduction
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects the knees and hips. This may result in pain, stiffness and loss of joint function where it occurs. 1 in 5 Australians over the age of 45 have osteoarthritis. It is a leading cause of chronic pain and disability, often affecting physical function and overall mental well-being. Risk factors for knee and hip osteoarthritis include obesity, and previous joint injury. As the population ages and becomes increasingly overweight, the incidence of osteoarthritis is rising. There is strong evidence to support strategies for slowing this disease progression, relieving pain and minimizing disability.
How does Physiotherapy help with knee osteoarthritis?
The main goals of osteoarthritis management are to reduce pain and stiffness, reduce disease progression, optimize and maintain function to enhance quality of life.
Studies show strong evidence that exercise therapy, weight management and pharmacological treatment plays an important role in managing osteoarthritis symptoms. Exercises would be helpful to decrease pain, improve joint motion, and strengthen muscles. This can be done before or while waiting for the elective joint replacement surgery.
Physiotherapy management for osteoarthritis aims to improve joint mobility, strength, physical function to keep up with an active lifestyle. This is achieved through a combination of pain-relieving techniques such as manual therapy, dry needling and an exercise rehabilitation program.
What we do at North Shore Physiotherapy Clinic to help with your knee osteoarthritis
Your physiotherapy session would consist of a detailed assessment on your mobility, strength, functional ability with the understanding of your overall health and any pre-existing conditions.
Your physiotherapist will be able to assist with pain management through a variety of treatment methods that are best suited for you and come up with a personalized evidence-based management plan and exercise program to achieve your preferred level of activity or goals. This active management plan would in turn help to improve pain, overall health management, strength, self-management and possibly the readiness for surgery if needed in future.
