top of page
Surrey Hills Arthritis

Find Relief From Osteoarthritis With Our Support

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, with 1 in 5 Australians over the age of 45 being diagnosed with it. It has the potential to make simple tasks much harder, significantly impacting your daily life. It is most commonly seen in the spine, knees, hips and hands which can make daily activities such as walking up and down stairs, sleeping on your side or holding a cup of tea, significantly harder. 

 

Although arthritis cannot be reversed, it can be managed and treated to slow the progression and make your daily tasks easier again. At Eastside Physio + Co, we understand the burden that joint pain can cause, and focus on creating a treatment plan that is personalised to you, to reduce your pain and help you reach your goals, however big or small they may be.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, in which the protective cartilage that covers each end of the bone, starts to break down. Without the cartilage, bones can start to rub together which causes pain, swelling and stiffness. It is a chronic and progressive condition that can affect most joints around the body.

 

There are two different types of osteoarthritis: primary and secondary. There is no specific cause for primary osteoarthritis however there are known risk factors including family history and age.  Secondary osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage breaks down as a result of another disease or medical condition such as a previous injury to the joint, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, or congenital abnormalities.

​

Arthritis can effect all joints of the body, but the most common areas of complaint include:

  • Hip arthritis

  • Knee arthritis 

  • Arthritis of the spine (neck and back)

  • Wrist and hand arthritis 

  • Shoulder arthritis 

  • Ankle arthritis

  • Foot and toe arthritis

Osteoarthritis Symptoms

Symptoms for osteoarthritis will usually develop slowly and worsen with time. These can differ from person to person in terms of intensity and frequency of pain. 

Symptoms may include:

 

  • Joint pain: dull aching pain or sharp pain

  • Stiffness

  • Reduced movement 

  • Swelling 

  • Tenderness 

  • Clicking noises

  • Grating sensation 

  • Muscle weakness

Osteoarthritis Treatments

Following a detailed and comprehensive assessment from one of our physiotherapists, a treatment plan will be made to specifically target your pain and your personal goals. 

​

Some of the treatment methods that we use include:

  • Targeted exercise program to increase muscular strength and improve cardiovascular fitness

  • Prescribed bracing or orthotics to improve or change joint mechanics

  • Exercises for mobility

  • Referral for imaging such as X Ray

  • Manual therapy including massage 

  • Education regarding your condition, how to manage pain and advice on adopting a healthier lifestyle

  • Clinical or Mat pilates 

  • Liaising with doctor/specialist to discuss pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication 

  • Provision of appropriate aids: including mobility aids such as walking frame

Osteoarthritis Frequently Asked Questions

Who gets Osteoarthritis?

Although there is no single cause for osteoarthritis, there are some factors that can increase your risk of developing the disease. These include:

​

  • Having sustained a previous injury to the joint

  • Repetitive movements or activities that place excessive stress on a joint

  • Increasing age

  • Being overweight 

  • Genetics

  • Gender: women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis

 

Why choose Eastside Physio + Co for arthritis treatment? 

Physiotherapy is proven to help with osteoarthritis and is therefore the most recommended form of care referred to by GPs.  At Eastside Physio we understand that living with osteoarthritis can be challenging, but with our extensive training and experience in managing arthritis we are able to provide the right care to keep you moving better, for longer. 

 

Our team of highly skilled physios take the time to understand each individual's specific condition as well as any goals you’re aiming for in the future.  An example of goals that we often hear from our patients is that they’re heading away for a European holiday; or can often be a more basic target such as being able to stand for 3 hours for an upcoming event.  This information helps us tailor a plan for you to achieve the best possible outcome.  

​

If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, or have recently received a diagnosis of osteoarthritis please contact our friendly team to make an appointment so that we can assist you with your concerns.

 

We are proud to provide care to East Melbourne patients from a range of suburbs including Surrey Hills, Ashwood, Ashburton, Auburn, Balwyn, Blackburn, Box Hill, Burwood, Camberwell, Canterbury, Doncaster and Hawthorn.

bottom of page