Are your joints feeling creaky or stiff? If every step sounds like a crunch or your fingers have become less nimble, you might be dealing with arthritis. This common condition affects joints and can occur at any age, not just in the elderly. But you’re not alone. Our Osteopaths are here to help.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced movement. While there are over 100 types, the following are the most common:
Main types of arthritis:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): Known as “wear-and-tear” arthritis, OA occurs when cartilage that cushions bones deteriorates, causing the bones to rub together. This friction results in pain, swelling, and stiffness, commonly affecting the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks synovium (the joint lining). This causes inflammation that can damage the joints, leading to pain, deformities, and loss of function. RA typically affects joints symmetrically, so if one foot or hand is affected, the other usually is too.
- Psoriatic arthritis: This type often develops in individuals with psoriasis. The immune system attacks both the skin (resulting in red, scaly patches) and the joints, particularly the synovium and entheses (where tendons and ligaments attach to bones). Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint and may also cause finger and toe swelling, as well as nail changes.
Enter your Osteopath:
Although arthritis has no cure, osteopathy may help manage symptoms:
- Pain relief: Osteopaths use techniques such as gentle joint mobilization and soft tissue manipulation to ease pain and improve joint function. These methods are intended to enhance circulation and reduce muscle tension around affected joints.
- Improved mobility: Osteopathy focuses on restoring movement and improving joint function. Techniques like stretching, joint articulation, and myofascial release may help increase your range of motion and ease daily tasks.
- Personalized exercise programs: Your Osteopath will create a customized exercise plan to strengthen muscles around your joints, improve flexibility, and reduce strain.
- Holistic approach: Osteopathy addresses the whole body, looking at postural issues, muscle imbalances, and lifestyle factors that might contribute to arthritis, providing a well-rounded treatment plan.
Conclusion
Arthritis doesn’t have to sideline you. We’re here to help you manage your symptoms and stay active. Ready to take the next step? Call us to book an appointment