Can Physiotherapy Help Arthritis? Everything You Need to Know

Understanding Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the joints, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness. With arthritis, you might find that your joint mobility is severely limited, meaning you cannot carry out your usual daily tasks. It typically affects various areas of the body, including the ankles, knees, hips, wrists, elbows, shoulders and spine. 

There are over a hundred types of arthritis that you can get diagnosed with a qualified physiotherapist. Some of the most common types of arthritis we see in our London physio clinic include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Gout
• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

But what’s actually happening to the body when you have arthritis?

During arthritis, the joints undergo degenerative changes and inflammation. Cartilage, the smooth tissue covering the ends of your bones, breaks down, leading to friction between bones during movement. This deterioration causes pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. 

Inflammation in the joint lining, called the synovium, makes symptoms worse, further compromising your joint function and mobility. As arthritis progresses, bone spurs may develop, which can lead to joint deformities and even worse discomfort.

Arthritis vs Osteoarthritis

Arthritis is a broad term that covers various conditions that cause joint inflammation and stiffness. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, specifically refers to a degenerative joint disease that occurs with age and wear and tear. 

Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the bones gradually wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. This usually happens in older adults. Other forms of arthritis can impact patients of any age, especially if they are associated with autoimmune or systemic inflammation.

Not sure if you have osteoarthritis or another form of arthritis? Fear not. A quick consultation with a physiotherapist can help you understand what’s wrong and where to go next.

What Physiotherapy is Good for Arthritis?

For arthritis, physiotherapy helps you find a treatment plan that works for your unique case of arthritis, whether it’s in your hands, knees, or widespread. There are many different types of physiotherapy, but for arthritis, we primarily use musculoskeletal physiotherapy – this addresses the muscles, bones, joints and connective tissues.

Through targeted exercises, manual therapy techniques, and education, our musculoskeletal physiotherapists help alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance overall mobility. 

Additionally, we might recommend other modalities, such as heat therapy, cold therapy, and ultrasound, to complement our clinic treatments. By addressing both your symptoms and the underlying factors causing your arthritis, our physiotherapy treatments help you better manage the condition and enjoy a better quality of life.

What Happens When You See a Physiotherapist for Arthritis

When you visit a physiotherapist for arthritis, the journey begins with an assessment and diagnosis. Licensed and registered physiotherapists in the UK are trained to evaluate your condition, understand your symptoms, and identify underlying factors to make a diagnosis – you don’t have to rely on your GP! This initial step is crucial for creating a treatment plan that meets your specific needs and goals.

Once the assessment is complete, your physiotherapist will help you develop a personalised treatment strategy. This may involve a combination of in-clinic sessions and at-home exercises designed to improve joint mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain. Don’t worry if this is totally new to you – the physiotherapist will guide you through each step, providing support and expertise along the way.

At One Body, we have a strong team of physiotherapists who specialise in joint conditions, including arthritis. With their expertise and dedication, we can help you manage your arthritis symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. Whether you require hands-on therapy, exercise prescription, or lifestyle advice, we are here to support you every step of the way.