Physiotherapy for Osteoarthritis

Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

• Pain on weight bearing (if in lower limbs or lower back)
• Pain on movement (if in upper limbs or neck)
• Restricted movement of the joint
• Stiffness, particularly on waking or after rest
• Swelling around the joint

Secondary symptoms may include muscle spasm and weakness, which can add to your pain. If the arthritis is in the spine, this may cause referred pain in your limbs, or nerve pain such as sciatica.

If the osteoarthritis is severe then surgical intervention may be required. However, physiotherapy treatment can often reduce pain and other symptoms through graded mobilisation of the joints, soft tissue techniques, and strengthening exercises / stretches.

Maintaining movement and muscle strength will help you to keep the joint healthy and continue as normal with your day-to-day activities.

Many patients also find acupuncture helpful in reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Click here to book osteoarthritis treatment with David Bolwell Physiotherapy Services >