Yes, physiotherapy can be very helpful for managing osteoarthritis (OA). While it cannot cure OA, physiotherapy can significantly improve quality of life and manage symptoms. Here’s how:

1. Pain Management:

Modalities like heat, cold therapy, or TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) can help reduce pain and inflammation, providing relief for those with OA. They can also give advice on exercise and activity modifications to make movements less painful.

2. Strengthening Exercises:

Strengthening the muscles surrounding the affected joint helps to stabilise and support the joint. This can reduce strain on the cartilage and decrease pain over time.

3. Range of Motion Exercises:

Physiotherapists can guide you through stretching and mobility exercises to maintain or improve the joint’s flexibility. This can help reduce stiffness and increase the range of motion.

4. Posture and Body Mechanics:

Physiotherapists can teach you how to adjust your posture and movement patterns to avoid putting additional strain on the affected joints, which can help in reducing pain and prevent further damage.

5. Weight Management:

If OA is in the weight-bearing joints (like the knees), physiotherapists may also work with you on strategies to reduce weight, as this can help reduce the load on the joints and alleviate symptoms.

6. Assistive Devices:

In some cases, a physiotherapist can recommend the use of assistive devices like braces, orthotics, or walking aids to support the affected joint and reduce pain during daily activities.

7. Education and Self-Management:

A physiotherapist can provide education on lifestyle modifications, including joint protection techniques, and ways to manage flare-ups of pain, allowing you to take control of your condition.

8. Aerobic Conditioning:

Gentle aerobic exercises (like walking, swimming, or cycling) can help improve cardiovascular health and overall stamina while avoiding high-impact stress on the joints.

In summary, physiotherapy focuses on reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing further deterioration, making it a key component of an overall management plan for osteoarthritis.

Here at Auckland Physiotherapy we are able to examine and diagnose your hip and knee condition and give you an individually tailored Arthritis care plan.

For more information, read about Arthritis Care at Auckland Physiotherapy or Mark Quinn's Blog on Arthritis Management. We also offer relief from arthritis packages.

a Physiotherapist early to help instead of waiting.

For more information, come into our clinic (close to Remuera, Newmarket and Parnell) to speak to our expert team. It is essential you first get the right diagnosis before any treatment and management occur so book in for a first appointment.

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