Arthritis pain is your body’s way of sounding the alarm that it’s time for deeper care and intervention. At Mandurah Spine and Sport, we understand the critical role physiotherapy plays in managing and actively reducing your discomfort, charting a course for enhanced movement and a better quality of life. 

With us, you’ll discover how specialised physical therapy techniques can significantly transform your daily experience, providing relief and renewed strength where it matters most.

Understanding Arthritis and Its Impact

Osteoarthritis typically refers to age related changes in one or more joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced motion. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, but is more common as we grow older. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic auto-immune disease whereby the body’s immune system targets healthy tissue. Distinguishing between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is essential for effective management.  

In relation to osteoarthritis, commonly affected regions are the knees, hands, hips, and spine. In the knees, arthritis can make walking, climbing stairs, and even sitting a painful and challenging activity. The hands and fingers may struggle with gripping, making it difficult to open jars or type due to pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis in the hip often leads to difficulties in movements that involve the lower body, affecting everything from bending over to getting in and out of chairs. Lastly, arthritis in the spine can result in stiffness and pain in the back or neck, significantly impacting posture and flexibility. 

Symptoms of Arthritis

Arthritis affects different people in various ways, but a few common symptoms stand out. These include pain, a constant ache or a sharp sensation around the affected joints, and swelling, causing the joints to appear larger and feel warm. Stiffness is especially noticeable first thing in the morning or after sitting still, making it hard to move smoothly. 

Many people also find they can’t move their joints as freely as before, limiting their ability to do certain activities or tasks. In more advanced cases, the joints may show signs of redness or feel, particularly warm, signalling inflammation. For those with rheumatoid arthritis, additional symptoms like overall fatigue and a general sense of feeling ill are common. Recognising these symptoms early is crucial for effectively managing arthritis. Starting treatment early, particularly with targeted physiotherapy, can significantly reduce discomfort and help maintain a higher quality of life.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Arthritis Management

The key to managing arthritis is addressing the symptoms and maintaining joint function and mobility.Physiotherapy offers a tailored approach to combat arthritis pain. There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that radial shockwave therapy can be very effective in managing the symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knees. In addition to this, working to improve the stability and control of the impacted joints is a great way to reduce overall discomfort and increase capacity for day to day activities. Here’s how physiotherapy makes a difference:

Pain Management Techniques

Radial shockwave has been shown to have beneficial effects on cartilage, subchondral bone and surrounding tissues in joints affected by osteoarthritis. Patients involved in the research reported relief from chronic osteoarthritis pain. Shockwave is a safe and non-invasive approach to managing osteoarthritis.

Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening the muscles around your joints can provide them with better support, making daily activities easier and less painful. A physiotherapist can guide you through targeted exercises focusing on building strength without adding stress to your joints.

Education and Lifestyle Advice

Understanding your condition and how to manage it day-to-day is vital. Your physiotherapist can advise on lifestyle adjustments, ergonomic tools, and techniques to protect your joints during everyday activities. For those active in sports or regular physical activities, learning how to prevent knee injuries is crucial. These professionals work hand-in-hand to create a comprehensive care plan tailored to your needs.

Why Choose Physiotherapy for Arthritis Pain Relief?

Including physiotherapy as a treatment for arthritis pain comes with numerous benefits, including:

• Personalised Care: Every arthritis case is unique, and physiotherapy treatments are customised to meet individual needs and goals.
• Non-Invasive Treatment: Avoid the need for surgery or heavy reliance on medication with effective, non-invasive treatment options.
• Improved Daily Functioning: Physiotherapy can significantly enhance your quality of life by focusing on your ability to move and perform daily tasks.

Take the Next Step Towards Pain Relief

Living with arthritis doesn’t have to mean living in pain. Physiotherapy provides a hopeful pathway towards managing discomfort, improving mobility, and reclaiming your active lifestyle. If you’re ready to take the next step in your arthritis management journey, we guide and support you.

Contact us today to arrange an appointment with our skilled team. Together, we’ll work towards achieving your health and mobility goals, ensuring you receive the personalised care and attention you deserve.