Joint Pain / Arthritis
Joint pain is a common occurrence that can result from abnormal joint loading. This may occur in the acute setting where an injury occurs to ligament or cartilage, as well as developing gradually over time in the condition known as osteoarthritis (OA).
Our physiotherapists are highly trained to assess and diagnose any acute joint injury, both immediately post-injury, or even if it has been hanging around for weeks to months. By taking a thorough history and performing a comprehensive assessment, we will determine whether on-referral or radiological investigation is required, as well as give you the right advice on managing the problem.
Evidence now suggests that low-grade inflammation contributes to osteoarthritis progression and precedes any structural changes. It is vital that early pain and injury is assessed and managed by your physiotherapist to prevent the joint deterioration that can lead to OA. Factors such as acute joint injury, malalignment, obesity, repetitive or excessive mechanical loading, aging and genetics can all contribute to the development and progression of OA.
Even if you believe you are already suffering from OA, seeing your physiotherapist can still be highly beneficial in improving your function and reducing pain and discomfort. Your Physiotherapist can provide treatment and advice to improve joint stiffness, muscle tightness and strength. One of our main goals is to optimise your alignment by improving your control of movement and evening out joint load, which can be assisted by equipment such as orthotics, taping and braces.
