Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a chronic and progressive condition. It can affect any joint in the body but is most common in the hands, spine, hip, knee and shoulder joints.
It involves the whole joint, including bone, cartilage, ligaments and tendons. Osteoarthritis has been previously seen as “wear and tear” but is now viewed as the bodies attempt to heal itself.
Some statistics:
1 in 11 Australians suffer from osteoarthritis - this is over 2 million people
1 in 5 Australians over 45 suffer from osteoarthritis
Of these, 1 in 4 describe their general health as being poor
There has been a 36% increase in hip and knee replacement surgeries since 2005.
2/3 of osteoarthritis sufferers are female
Risk factors for osteoarthritis include:
Older age
Obesity - This is not just due to the increased load on joints but ALSO because these fat cells create proteins that damage the joints cartilage.
Previous joint injury
Repetitive strain
Anatomical variations or bony deformities
Physiotherapy is considered a front line of treatment in the management of osteoarthritis.
Exercise, taping and manual therapy have been shown to provide short and long term benefit.
The osteoarthritis vicious cycle
Person has pain associated with osteoarthritis
Avoids exercise and activity
Loses strength
Health deteriorates and may gain weight
Increase in risk factors for osteoarthritis
Increased pain and reduced function.
How we can Help reverse THE CYCLE
Person has pain associated with osteoarthritis
Begins to exercise under guidance of physiotherapist within limitations
Increases strength
Maintains or loses weight
Reduces risk factors for osteoarthritis
Reduces pain and increases function.