Have you heard of osteoarthritis? Rather than an individual ailment, it refers to a series of conditions that involve degradation of the joints. This can lead to joint pain, tenderness, stiffness, creaking, locking of joints and sometimes swelling, all of which range from uncomfortable to painful and can greatly affect your daily activities due to reduced mobility.
Though medication is often prescribed, the most effective solution is to nip osteoarthritis in the bud, or apply actions to your daily routine if it has already taken hold. This can include exercise, posture changes and lifestyle modification, all of which may be recommended by your physiotherapist.
A change of lifestyle
Sometimes it’s the simple things that can prove particularly effective. When it comes to osteoarthritis, a planned routine of exercise, weight loss, appropriate rest, activity changes and/or the use of mechanical aids for support (i.e. braces, splints, canes) can make a dramatic difference to your well-being and mobility.
Sometimes these changes will accompany pain relief medication, and other times they can even replace it completely. Your physiotherapist will ascertain the best course of action, as every case is individual and will benefit from a customised approach.
Supplementary, my Dear Watson
Glucosamine and chondroitin are often used to treat osteoarthritis. Regularly used in conjunction with one another, these building blocks for joint cartilage have been shown to decrease the pain associated with osteoarthritis. Glucosamine has also proven effective in slowing the progression of the condition. As with all other advice and health plans, your physiotherapist will advise on what will work best for your condition on a personal level.
Appropriate medication
Sometimes medication will be required, often alongside lifestyle changes. This can include paracetamol, ibuprofen and codeine. However, side effects can often arise, which is why Physio Med focus on lifestyle changes and supplements first, finding ways to alleviate and prevent osteoarthritis through exercise, weight loss and healthy living.
How Physio Med can help
Our skilled and understanding physiotherapists are here to provide a customised approach to osteoarthritis that will suit your condition and physical abilities. Get in touch today to see how we can help.
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Article on how lifestyle modification can alleviate osteoarthritis originally appeared on the Physio Med National website.
