Is knee pain slowing you down? Are you dealing with a common, yet manageable joint condition called Osteoarthritis (OA)?
Let’s find out!
In this blog, together let’s explore what Osteoarthritis (OA) is, its causes, symptoms, and how it’s diagnosed. Plus, discover how we at Health Plus Physiotherapy can help you manage OA with effective physiotherapy treatments.
What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?
Osteoarthritis of the knee joint is a degenerative, slowly progressive and chronic disease, which is caused by the breakdown of cartilage due to wear and tear of the knee joint, mainly seen in older populations, secondly due to congenital defects, joint deformities, obesity, hypermobility of joints and chronic knee injury.
Causes and Risk Factors
The symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee are:
- Dull achy pain
- Sometimes buckling or locking
- Swelling
- Reduced mobility
- Stiffness mainly in the morning
- Bony deformity
- Crepitus
- Muscle weakness of the knee joint
- Aggravated pain after prolonged postures such as lying down, sitting, walking or climbing stairs
How is Osteoarthritis (OA) diagnosed?
- Physical examination
- X-rays
- MRI
- Arthroscopy
Physiotherapy Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis (OA)
Here’s the good news! Physiotherapy treatment plays a major role in treating Osteoarthritis (OA) knee. When the condition becomes severe, an orthopedic doctor may suggest knee replacement surgery.
Our comprehensive physiotherapy approach includes:
- Pain management techniques using electrical modalities
- Strengthening exercises focused on the knee, hip, and core muscles
- Stretching exercises
- Tapping techniques
- Manual therapy with joint mobilizations
- Well-structured home exercise programs
- Endurance exercises such as mild aerobic exercises and balance exercises for fall prevention
- Patient education for weight reduction, energy conservation techniques
- Supportive gear to protect the knee using knee braces, orthotics, and assistive devices in severe cases
Contact us today!
At Health Plus Physiotherapy, we understand that knee pain can limit your movement and affect your everyday activities. We create personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs, helping you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.
Book a consultation or appointment today!
