Osteoarthritis impacts our ageing population more than any other condition.
Osteoarthritis can be a chronic (long term) debilitating disease, causing a great deal of pain for the sufferer and impacting their quality of life.
Osteoarthritis can be a chronic (long term) debilitating disease, causing a great deal of pain for the sufferer and impacting their quality of life.
Joints are made up of connective and fibrous tissue, held together by ligaments. Osteoarthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage covering and protecting the end of the skeletal bones begins to wear out, in some cases leaving the bones unprotected. The joint becomes stiff, painful, swollen and difficult to move.
The osteopath is able to treat the joint manually with stretches, soft tissue massage and gentle joint articulation helping to reduce your pain and in some cases increase the range of movement.
While osteoarthritic change in a joint is considered irreversible, there are still many options available to a person that will allow them to manage their pain, stiffness and potentially prevent further progression of the disease. Physical therapy and exercise are two options that your osteopath can assist you with.
Osteoarthritis is sometimes referred to as “wear and tear,” “degenerative joint disease,” or “arthritis.” Osteoarthritis commonly involves weight-bearing joints; the knees, hip and spine – but can also include the small finger joints, thumb and the big toe.
Manual treatment combined with exercise can help your to maintain your preferred leisure activities and lifestyle.