What is Osteoarthritis and What Should I do About it?
Hey there, welcome to Fixit Physio! We're glad you found us, and we're here to help you with all your joint and muscle-related concerns. Today, we're going to talk about osteoarthritis, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Don't worry, we'll try to keep it light and easy!
So, what is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage in our joints. Cartilage is the spongy tissue that cushions our joints, allowing them to move smoothly and painlessly. As we age, our cartilage can break down, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the affected joint. OA can affect any joint in the body, but it's most common in the knees, hips, and hands.
Who gets osteoarthritis?
Anyone can get osteoarthritis, but it's more common in older adults, people who are overweight or obese, and those who have had joint injuries or surgeries. Genetics can also play a role in whether or not you develop OA. If your parents or grandparents had it, you may be more likely to get it too.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joint. You might also notice a grinding or popping sensation when you move the joint. The pain and stiffness may be worse in the morning or after sitting for long periods. As the condition progresses, you may find that you have less range of motion in the affected joint.
What should I do about osteoarthritis?
The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do to manage osteoarthritis and keep your joints healthy. The most important thing you can do is exercise. Yes, you read that right. Exercise is the solution to maintaining healthy joints into old age. All the research points to it!
Exercise helps to strengthen the muscles around your joints, which can take some of the pressure off the affected joint. It also helps to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can help to reduce pain and stiffness. And if you're overweight, losing weight can also help to reduce the strain on your joints.
At Fixit Physio, we specialize in helping people with osteoarthritis to return to exercise. Our team of physiotherapists can design a personalized exercise program that's tailored to your specific needs and goals. We'll help you to build strength, improve flexibility, and reduce pain, all while having fun and feeling supported.
In addition to exercise, there are a few other things you can do to manage osteoarthritis. Applying heat or cold to the affected joint can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Using assistive devices like braces, canes, or walkers can also help to take some of the pressure off the affected joint.
In some cases, medication or surgery may be necessary to manage osteoarthritis. However, these options are usually reserved for more severe cases.
So, there you have it. Osteoarthritis doesn't have to be a life sentence of pain and stiffness. With the right exercise program and lifestyle modifications, you can keep your joints healthy and pain-free for years to come. If you're ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier you, give us a call at Fixit Physio. We'd love to help you get started!
