Arthritis can affect people across all ages. There are more than 140 different types of arthritis and the more you know about the arthritis, the better you can make decisions about treatment, medication, and management options. Osteoarthritis is by far the most common form we see here at the clinic, followed by Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout and Ankylosing Spondylosis. Even within these 4 different types, management can look quite different particularly if the person is having a flare up of symptoms.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis can occur at any age but usually starts after the age of 40. With Osteoarthritis, inflammation affects the cartilage (the shock absorber for the joint) and results in breaking down of the cartilage, thinning and sometimes roughening. This process can occur over a long period of time and cause further inflammation within the joint leading to pain and dysfunction of movement.
Often previous sporting injuries, and in some cases certain occupations, can place extra load or stress on joints and therefore increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life. For example an ACL rupture of the knee has been shown to increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis in this joint at a younger age with increased prevalence.
Some of the common areas that may be affected by osteoarthritis are the neck and shoulders, lower back, hips, knees and base of toes and thumbs. Arthritis NZ are a good resource if you would like to understand more about osteoarthritis. You can find a link to their website here: Arthritis NZ Osteoarthritis.
Treatment & Management
So what can you do about it? Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis there are several ways to help control and manage the symptoms of this disease. Nutrition, strength & conditioning exercises and medication will all play a major part. As physiotherapists we are in the ideal position to help you manage your joint symptoms. We can work with you to desensitise structures around the joint with physiotherapy techniques and provide individualised exercises programs that incorporate both strength & conditioning exercises and general aerobic activity.
Exercise has been shown to help with the management of pain and improve the overall quality of life in those with osteoarthritis. For example, cycling is generally a great way to manage some knee symptoms. It keeps the joint moving and the muscles surrounding the joint strong, as well as providing a level of pain management. Swimming or aquatic exercise offer another low impact cardio based option. This is beneficial for those suffering from lower back pain associated with osteoarthritis as well as hips, ankles, feet, or shoulder and neck pain.
The design of a resistance conditioning program is a great way to maintain strength around the associated muscle groups, add mobility and function. It will also provide valuable balance input that can help in the prevention of falls or development of other injuries.
Need some help?
If you are unsure of what you could be doing to help manage your osteoarthritis then we would be more than happy to help assist you with this and to help continue with your quality of life.
Contact us now to make an appointment.
(Article updated October 2025)
