Understanding Osteoarthritis ~ Signs, Symptoms And Management Options

When it comes to osteoarthritis, a little understanding goes a long way.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition in which the cartilage, which acts as a cushion in our joints, wears away. As a result, the benefits of cartilage are lost, and bones of the joints rub closer together causing pain and swelling. This can also lead to decreased ability to move and the formation of bony spurs in the joint.

It effects 8% of the Australian population, approximately 1.8 million people.

The most commonly affected areas of OA include the knees, hips, spine and hands.

What is Osteoarthritis caused by?

Osteoarthritis is often regarding as joint wear and tear due to its incidence increasing with age. However there are many other factors that contribute to its development:

Weight

Being overweight puts additional pressure on the hip and knee joints, in fact recent research has shown that for every pound of weight lost, there is a 4 pound reduction in knee joint stress among overweight people with osteoarthritis.

Heredity

Genes past down from your parents may make you more likely to develop knee OA or inherit other bony or biomechanical abnormalities that can lead to increased risk of developing OA.

Injury and Overuse

If you have previously suffered from a serious injury to the joint you are more likely to develop OA in that area. Certain careers that put repetitive stress on joints, e.g. standing for long periods, bending or heavy lifting can also make the cartilage wear away quickly.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include:

~     Pain that increases with activity and eases with rest

~     Swelling

~     Warmth/redness in the joint

~     Stiff knee, especially in the morning

If you are suffering any of these symptoms contact one of our Physiotherapists at Jubilee Sports Physiotherapy for management options.

How is Osteoarthritis diagnosed?

To diagnose osteoarthritis, our physiotherapists will collect information on your personal and family medical history and also perform a physical examination.

Sometimes an X-ray may be needed to determine the extent of OA and plan your management.

There is a 50% prevalence of OA changes on x-ray in people over 65 years, and almost everyone over 85 years have evidence of OA on x-ray. However not everyone with these changes suffer from symptoms.

Management of Osteoarthritis

Unfortunately there is no cure for osteoarthritis however physiotherapy interventions are available to help manage symptoms such as pain, stiffness and swelling, improve joint mobility and flexibility.

Physical Activity

Physical activity is one of the most beneficial ways to manage OA. Simple activities such as walking can help reduce pain and maintain a healthy weight. Other exercises that are easy on the knees include stationary cycling, swimming and water aerobics. You should be aiming for about 30 minutes of exercise 5 days per week. However, start small, around 10 minutes and increase as you improve. Muscle soreness is normal when you start to exercise and it is okay to work though it, however don’t ignore excessive pain in your joints.

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Weight Management

Excess weight adds additional stress to our joints, therefore losing weight can help reduce pain and limit further damage. As well as physical activity, diet is an essential component in managing weight loss.

Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening exercises are also important as they help build the muscles around the affected joints to reduce the burden of those joints and reduce pain.

Stretching Exercises

Gentle stretching can also help improve flexibility, decrease stiffness and reduce pain. A regular stretching program prescribed by your physiotherapist as well as exercise classes such as yoga are great ways to manage stiffness.

One of the Physiotherapists can prescribe you with a personalised strength and flexibility program to suit your symptoms and abilities.

Orthopaedic Management

If joints are severely damaged and physiotherapy management has not been successful joint repair or replacement surgery may be necessary. Eligible patients will be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon to perform these procedures.

What if I can’t afford physiotherapy every week? Can I just go to the gym or do the exercises on my own?

General non-prescribed exercises given to clients without sufficient education can increase pain and reduce function.

Exercises should be appropriate for your condition, your health, your lifestyle and your likes and dislikes.  After taking a thorough history of your condition, your limitations and your lifestyle, one of our Physiotherapists can design a program that is safe and maximize your improvement.

We will show you how to manage your arthritis via a program, which involves education, exercise, and lifestyle advice.  Typically after the initial consultation, you would see the physiotherapist a week later to answer any questions, ensure you are doing the exercises correctly and re-evaluate the function of your joint.  As long as you are happy with your progress, you may not need to see the physiotherapist for another 3-4 weeks to review and upgrade your exercises.

If you have any questions regarding osteoarthritis and its management or would like to consult with one of the Physiotherapists at Jubilee Sports Physiotherapy, please contact our Caringbah practice on (02) 9540 9400 or our Kareela practice (02) 9528 2200.

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m mooney
m mooney
04:59 09 Jul 24
Julie Dimevski
Julie Dimevski
08:04 26 Jun 24
Kieran and the team have provided great customer service during my daughters recovery. They show care, and are supportive. He has been open and transparent, and positive. Thanks Kieran and team.
Tim merchant
Tim merchant
06:42 23 Apr 24
Really inviting staff, always ready to help. They know what they are talking about and facilites are wonderful.
Ashley Williams
Ashley Williams
10:55 03 Apr 24
best in the business the team here are the very best at their jobs
G G
G G
16:52 05 Mar 24
I came to Jubilee Sports Physio for help on how to exersise and get fit without injuring myself constantly.During my initial consultation Michael said, I was standing wrong, sitting wrong and exersises I did were not suitable for my body.After four sessions, 15 minutes of daily exercises in between and I can go on hikes, lift weights and feel many years younger.I now have the life I want and very grateful to Jubilee Sports Physio, for their professionalism from booking, greeting and being able to do all I want physically.I highly recommend Jubilee Sports
Lara Mangelli
Lara Mangelli
08:56 18 Dec 23
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the exceptional care provided by Michael and James for attending to my son, both before and after his shoulder reconstruction. Michael and James' combination of kindness and professionalism played an important role in helping my son navigate through what was his first significant life challenge.They both demonstrated an unwavering commitment to my son's well-being, providing not only expert physiotherapy but also a level of compassionate support that went above and beyond.Thank you Jubilee team for your outstanding commitment to patient care. It's reassuring to know that professionals like Michael and James are dedicated to not just addressing physical challenges but also fostering a supportive and empathetic environment for individuals facing health setbacks. The receptions ladies were kind and helpful too.
Judith Gifford
Judith Gifford
06:00 18 Dec 23
Over a period of 4 years my husband and I have had the expertise and professionalism of Michael Gabriel and staff at Jubilee Sports Physiotherapy Each of our ageing conditions required commitment to exercises to improve. When the conditions were clearly explained we gained confidence and understanding of realistic outcomes. We feel very fortunate for all of our treatments..and highly recommend Michael and staff.
Georgia Manos
Georgia Manos
12:08 13 Dec 23
The whole Jubilee team is fantastic. They are professional, knowledgeable and have always gotten me back playing football as quick as possible!
Jordan Figon
Jordan Figon
06:36 13 Dec 23
The team at Jubilee have been looking after me for over 15 years. Specially Michael with the help of Kieran. They have rehabbed me through 4 major surgeries as well as long standing injuries. It is because of these guys, I am able to still be involved in the game I love, stretching my career out as long as possible. In addition, my whole family is part of the Jubilee family
David Washington
David Washington
05:02 13 Dec 23
I have relied on Michael Gabriel for my physiotherapy needs for a number of years now. His professional work has allowed me to continue to chase the love I have for outdoors recreation.
Luke Payne
Luke Payne
22:05 12 Dec 23
Michael and his team are the best. So professional and knowledgeable and have kept me moving for years.
Diane sutton
Diane sutton
21:58 12 Dec 23
I have been a patient of Jubilee Sports Physio for many years, being treated for various injuries & chronic conditions. Michael’s diagnostic skills are excellent. I can highly recommend this practice for their care, proficiency & friendliness.
Nicole Simpson
Nicole Simpson
10:53 12 Dec 23
Micheal has helped over the years to heal and help with my injuries.. The entire team gives a five star help. I can’t praise them enough…Thank you so much
Judy Andrews
Judy Andrews
10:26 12 Dec 23
Michael has treated me on a number of occasions. He is very professional and very easy to talk to. He obviously knows his stuff and never fails to set you on the right path with his treatments
BERGE GABO
BERGE GABO
09:28 12 Dec 23
"I have been going to Jubilee Physiotherapy for many years.Very professional from the receptionists to the principal Physioswith lots of experience and straight to the point thatsave time and money"
Corinne Favaloro
Corinne Favaloro
04:09 02 Nov 23
I have been attending Jubilee physio, on and off, for many years.In fact three generations of my family are presently receiving treatment there. I have had several of the physiotherapist at Jubilee work on different problems and have found them all to be professional, knowledgeable and very caring in their treatment.
Nicole Di noia
Nicole Di noia
22:19 01 Nov 23
Thorough, professional and passionate team of physiotherapists.
Steve Chidgey
Steve Chidgey
02:04 04 Jul 23
The the treatment I received for injury was first class. Caring, knowledgeable and highly professional. The electronic home exercising provided to me showed me the required exercises so I was not let to a piece of papers directing me. Loved the app. This physio is the best I have used. Highly recommended.
Margaret Peace
Margaret Peace
01:29 01 Jul 23
I have attended Jubilee Physiotherapy for many years and have always had a positive experience. The staff are professional and knowledgeable. I always feel comfortable and safe in their care.My therapist, Samuel Leslie, knew exactly how to treat my new neck issue. As a result, I have made a very good recovery.
Angelina Mastoris
Angelina Mastoris
23:09 01 Mar 23
The guys at Jubilee are amazing! Been going for a couple years and each time I’ve had a great experience. Massive shout out and thanks to our team Physio Sam for helping me with my rehab and recovery. He’s helped improve my overall game and has made me stronger than before. He’s a legend. Would highly recommend, overall fantastic experience!
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