Specialist Physiotherapy For Osteoarthritis
Specialist Care for Every JointÂ
Osteoarthritis is one of our key areas of expertise, and a condition we see a lot in our role as Specialist Physiotherapists. Affecting numerous joints throughout the body and significantly impacting daily life, it can make even simple tasks—such as walking, opening jars, or getting out of a chair—difficult and painful. Often preventing you from living the life you want to.
Many people are flippantly told they have osteoarthritis by a healthcare professional without a clear explanation of what it means for them. This lack of information can lead to fear, confusion, and unnecessary worry about their future mobility and quality of life.Â
At Solent Specialist Physiotherapy, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge. One of the most common things we hear is, "I wish I’d seen you first." That’s because we have expert knowledge and we take the time to explain your condition thoroughly, help you understand your options, and give you the confidence to take control of your osteoarthritis.
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With the right guidance, you can make informed decisions about your treatment, pain management, and lifestyle choices, ensuring the best possible outcome for your long-term health and mobility.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition that affects joints, causing changes in the cartilage, bone, and surrounding tissues (a bit like how the skin develops wrinkles). It happens when the joint tries to repair itself after increased load, but sometimes these changes lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement instead of relief.Â
Any joint can be affected, but knees, hips, and hands are the most common. Some people experience flare-ups, where symptoms suddenly get worse for a few days or even weeks, making movement more difficult and even affecting sleep and mood. While osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, there are many ways to manage symptoms, reduce pain, and improve joint function with the right treatment and advice.Â
Let us help you manage your symptoms and take back control of your life.
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How Does Osteoarthritis Feel?
Osteoarthritis can feel different for everyone, but common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and a feeling of weakness or instability. Many people describe their joints as feeling achy, sore, or even warm, especially after periods of rest or increased activity. Stiffness is often worse in the morning or after sitting for a long time, making it difficult to move freely at first. Some may also experience a "grinding" or "clicking" sensation due to changes in the joint surfaces.Â
Are You Damaging Your Joint by Using It?Â
A common misconception is that moving and using an arthritic joint will make the condition worse. In reality, gentle movement and the right type of exercise can actually help protect your joints. Arthritis does not mean your joint is "wearing away" like a machine part—your body is constantly adapting and repairing itself. Staying active helps keep the muscles around the joint strong, supports joint stability, and improves circulation, which can reduce stiffness and pain.Â
Avoiding movement, on the other hand, can lead to muscle weakness and joint stiffness, making symptoms worse over time. The key is to balance activity with appropriate rest and to follow a structured exercise plan that strengthens and supports the affected joints without causing excessive strain. With the right approach, you can stay mobile, manage pain, and improve your overall function without causing harm to your joints.
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