Osteoarthritis
What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint condition that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones breaks down over time. As the cartilage wears away, bones may begin to rub together, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected joints. While OA can affect any joint in the body, it most commonly affects the knees, hips, spine, and hands.
OA typically develops slowly and worsens over time. It is more prevalent in older adults, but it can also affect younger individuals, especially those who have experienced joint injuries or have a family history of the condition. Although osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, there are various treatments available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The symptoms of osteoarthritis vary depending on which joints are affected and the severity of the condition. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Joint Pain: This is the hallmark symptom. Pain can range from mild to severe and typically worsens with activity or overuse of the joint.
- Stiffness: Especially after periods of inactivity, such as in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
- Swelling: Inflammation around the joint can cause visible swelling and a feeling of tightness or fullness.
- Reduced Range of Motion: As the disease progresses, it becomes harder to move the affected joint through its full range of motion.
- Cracking or Popping Sounds: You may hear or feel popping sounds (crepitus) when moving the affected joint.
Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis
Several factors increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis, including:
- Age: OA is most common in individuals over the age of 50, though it can affect younger people as well.
- Joint Injuries: Past joint injuries, such as fractures or ligament damage, can increase the risk of developing OA in the injured joint.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts added stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, increasing the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis.
- Genetics: A family history of OA can increase the risk of developing the condition.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop OA, especially after menopause, possibly due to hormonal changes.
Treatment Modalities for Osteoarthritis at ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab
We use a range of evidence-based therapies designed to reduce pain, improve joint function, and slow the progression of osteoarthritis. Below are the primary treatment modalities we use to manage OA:
- Physiotherapy
- Massage Therapy
- Chiropractic Care
- Acupuncture
- Naturopathic Medicine
Physiotherapy is the cornerstone of osteoarthritis treatment. By addressing muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and improper movement patterns, physiotherapy can help you manage OA symptoms and maintain joint function. Common physiotherapy interventions for OA include:
- Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises to build up the muscles around the affected joint, which helps stabilize and support the joint, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Range of Motion Exercises: Stretching and mobility exercises designed to maintain or improve the flexibility and movement of the affected joint.
- Joint Protection Techniques: Educating you on how to move and use your joints in ways that minimize strain and avoid aggravating the condition.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as joint mobilizations, to alleviate stiffness and improve movement in the joint.
- Modalities for Pain Relief: Techniques like heat and cold therapy, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), or ultrasound therapy can help manage pain and inflammation.
Physiotherapy is the cornerstone of osteoarthritis treatment. By addressing muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and improper movement patterns, physiotherapy can help you manage OA symptoms and maintain joint function. Common physiotherapy interventions for OA include:
- Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises to build up the muscles around the affected joint, which helps stabilize and support the joint, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Range of Motion Exercises: Stretching and mobility exercises designed to maintain or improve the flexibility and movement of the affected joint.
- Joint Protection Techniques: Educating you on how to move and use your joints in ways that minimize strain and avoid aggravating the condition.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as joint mobilizations, to alleviate stiffness and improve movement in the joint.
- Modalities for Pain Relief: Techniques like heat and cold therapy, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), or ultrasound therapy can help manage pain and inflammation.
Chiropractic care is an effective treatment option for osteoarthritis, particularly for OA in the spine, hips, or knees. Chiropractic treatments may include:
- Spinal Adjustments: For OA in the spine, spinal adjustments can help improve alignment, reduce pain, and increase mobility.
- Joint Manipulations: For OA in other joints, gentle joint manipulations can help restore function, reduce stiffness, and alleviate pain.
Acupuncture may offer relief for OA symptoms by:
- Reducing Pain: By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture promotes the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
- Reducing Inflammation: Helps manage swelling and inflammation in the affected joints, leading to decreased discomfort.
Naturopathic treatments support your body’s ability to heal and can help reduce inflammation and pain caused by osteoarthritis. These treatments may include:
- Herbal Supplements: Certain herbs, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate OA symptoms.
- Nutritional Counseling: Diet adjustments and supplements that support joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being.
- Hydrotherapy: Using warm water to relieve pain and improve mobility in affected joints.
All Major Canadian Insurances Accepted | Direct Billing | MVA Approved
Why Choose ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab for Osteoarthritis Treatment?
- Expert Care: Our team is skilled in managing osteoarthritis and uses a combination of proven treatments to address your unique symptoms.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: With access to physiotherapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and naturopathic medicine, we offer a well-rounded approach to treating OA.
- Personalized Plans: We create customized treatment plans designed to meet your specific needs and goals.
- Ongoing Support: We provide continuous monitoring and support to help you manage your osteoarthritis long-term.
- Insurance-Friendly: Direct billing and MVA-approved services make treatment easy and accessible.