What is osteoarthritis(OA) and the role of physiotherapy in it?
Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling, pain, and loss of movement /stiffness to one or more joints. It is the inflammation of joints. It can be mild, moderate or severe. It is broad terminology. we can include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis, and Ankylosing spondylitis. All of them have different causes and different approaches.
Osteoarthritis is a very common type of arthritis. The structure surrounded by joints ( cartilage) is damaged . This Cartilage acts as a shock absorber and lubricant. So the bones rub together when we perform a particular movement—repetition of the same movement, further damages the joints. And so the movement or joint becomes painful.
About 73% of people living with osteoarthritis are older than 55 years, and 60% are female https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/osteoarthritis
A healthcare provider will help you find a combination of treatments. Physiotherapy has shown better outcomes in the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Types of Osteoarthritis
PRIMARY OSTEOARTHRITIS: The most common type of OA that develops in joints over time. Due to wear and tear from using the joints, it might happen throughout life.
SECONDARY ARTHRITS: When the joints are damaged directly that causes OA. for example, trauma, injuries, etc.
The most common joints are Knee joints, Hip joints, and spine. Other joints might be affected. Age, overweight, and joint injury overuse are the risk factors of OA.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Pain in the joints
Stiffness
Swelling around the joints
Reduce Range of motion
Joint deformity
How is OA treated?
- Medications
- Exercises
- Supportive devices
- Heat and cold therapies
- Surgery
PREVENTION
- Avoid tobacco products
- wearing the seat belts.
- Doing low-impact exercises
- Follow healthy diets
PHYSIOTHERAPY
- Pain Management: We provide Manual therapy treatment as well as ultrasound, TENs, Ice, and heat therapy to reduce pain and joint inflammation.
- Exercise Programs: We design customized exercise programs to strengthen muscles around the affected joints, to improve flexibility. Stretching, strengthening, and ROM exercises.
- Assistive devices: We do advise for assistance like brace, and splint to support the joint and increase mobility.
- Education: We advise about do’s and don’ts for daily activities. Also, body mechanics protect against tearing and tearing of joints. Lifestyle modifications.
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