OSTEOARTHRITIS

WHO?

• Increasing prevalence with age/ 2x more in females than males.
• Affects 240 million people world-wide.
• >4 million people in Australia have pain with OA = 1/6 people in Aus.
• Most common in the knee or hip.

WHAT?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the body’s active response to micro injuries to the joint. For majority of people their arthritis is stable and pain free with occasional flare-ups. These flare-ups can be managed and overcome with individualised physiotherapy treatment.

WHAT HELPS WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS RELATED JOINT PAIN?

1. Exercise (individualised and tailored to you)
   • Clinical pilaties/ strength training
   • Aerobic exercise: swimming, cycling, walking.
   • Hydrotherapy

HOW DOES EXERCISE HELP?

• Improves joint function, strengthens muscles to improve loading mechanics and improves general well-being so your better able to manage your pain.
• It can delay the need for surgery and reduce reliance on pain relieving medications.
• Assists weight management to reduce load on the joint.
• Being stronger before surgery = better post op. outcomes.

2. Weight management to reduce the load going through the joint.
   1. Seek nutritional advice- all foods in moderation.
   2. Increase physical activity levels with a tailored exercise program.
   3. Walking/Hydrotherapy
   4. Reducing sitting time.

Physiotherapy can help with people at any stage of their osteoarthritis journey.