Arthritis is a condition that affects one in six people in the UK (approximately 10 million) and over half a billion people worldwide. It can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation in the joints, as well as fatigue, mobility problems, and loss of dexterity. Understandably, this can have a major impact on everyday life.

If you have arthritis and want help to manage your symptoms better, physiotherapy could be exactly what you’re looking for.

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy (“physio”) is a healthcare discipline that helps people restore, maintain, and improve their physical function and mobility.

Physiotherapists (i.e. practitioners of physiotherapy) use techniques like exercises, manual therapy, massage, electrotherapy, acupuncture, and education to treat conditions like arthritis.

Does physio help arthritis?

The million-pound question is does physiotherapy actually help arthritis? The answer is a resounding YES! If you have arthritis, physiotherapy can be incredibly beneficial for you. Here’s how:

· Pain relief

One of the primary goals of physiotherapy is to alleviate pain. Physiotherapists can help reduce joint pain and inflammation using targeted exercises and manual therapy. They can also teach you techniques to use at home to manage your pain.

· Improved mobility

Arthritis can make it challenging to move comfortably. Physiotherapy can help improve your range of motion and flexibility, allowing you to move more freely.

Your physiotherapist will design a personalised exercise programme to address your specific needs and challenges. As your mobility and comfort levels improve, your physiotherapist will adjust your treatment plan.

· Strengthening muscles

Weak muscles can make the symptoms of arthritis worse. Physiotherapy includes exercises to strengthen the muscles around your joints, providing better support and reducing strain. This can prevent further joint damage and help you move more easily.

· Education and self-management

Knowledge is power; physiotherapists are experts at educating their patients about arthritis and how to manage it effectively. They can teach you about proper posture, body mechanics, and joint protection techniques to minimise stress on your joints. You’ll also learn strategies to manage flare-ups and prevent further injury.

Additional benefits of physiotherapy for arthritis

Now that we’ve established that physiotherapy can help with arthritis, let’s dive deeper into its specific benefits. Trust us, there are plenty!

· Personalised treatment plans

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and no two arthritis patients are the same. That’s why physiotherapy is so effective.

Whether you’re living with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another form of the condition, a physiotherapist will develop a plan unique to your needs and goals. To do this, they draw on a variety of treatment options, constantly adjusting the approach as your needs change.

There are no age limits to who can have physiotherapy and it’s a suitable treatment option for most people, so whether you’re a young person with juvenile arthritis or well into your later years, it’s worth exploring.

· Achieving your personal goals

Only you know how arthritis currently affects your life, but the chances are that there are things you would like to improve.

Setting specific, achievable goals is a crucial part of your physiotherapy journey. Whether your aim is to get in and out of your car without pain, reach items in your kitchen cupboards, manage the stairs more comfortably, perform your job without pain, or even take part in your favourite sport, your physiotherapist can help you achieve these goals.

· Non-invasive and drug-free

Physiotherapy is a non-invasive, drug-free way to manage arthritis. This means you can avoid the side effects and risks associated with medications and surgeries (if that’s your preference) or use physiotherapy to complement other treatments you may be receiving, enhancing their effectiveness.

· Enhanced quality of life

Living with arthritis can be tough, but physiotherapy can make a significant difference in your overall quality of life. It reduces pain, improves mobility, and increases strength, helping you enjoy your favourite activities and feel better.

· Improved balance

As well as making your joints stiff, arthritis can affect your balance, especially if you have reduced movement in your hips or knees. This means people with arthritis are at risk of falling, which can cause further bone damage and other injuries.

Physiotherapy can help reduce this risk. It improves your overall stability through targeted exercises and techniques. Having better balance can help you move more confidently and safely in your daily activities.

· Prevention of further joint damage

One of the long-term benefits of physiotherapy is its ability to prevent further joint damage. By strengthening the muscles around your joints and improving your overall function, physiotherapy can help you avoid additional wear and tear. This can be especially important if you have a progressive form of arthritis.

· Better fitness

Regular physiotherapy sessions can also improve your overall fitness levels. By engaging in exercises designed to boost your cardiovascular health and muscle strength, you can boost your fitness and prevent other health issues that might exacerbate arthritis.

Improved fitness can lead to better joint function, reduced pain, and a higher quality of life. Plus, staying active can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is essential for managing arthritis symptoms.

· Support and encouragement

Physiotherapy isn’t just about exercises and treatments; it’s also about support and encouragement. Your physiotherapist will be with you every step of the way, providing guidance, motivation, and a listening ear. Having someone in your corner can make a world of difference in your arthritis journey.

We’re here to help you

So, there you have it – physiotherapy is a fantastic option for managing arthritis. From pain relief and improved mobility to personalised treatment and prevention of further joint damage, there are so many benefits.

Above all, it will help you to feel like you have some influence over the condition (and tap into the mental and physical benefits of staying active), all of which are so important when your body hurts.

If you’re living with arthritis, consider giving physiotherapy a try. Our expert physiotherapy team is here to discuss your specific needs and start your journey towards a more comfortable, active life.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

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