Living with Arthritis Doesn’t Mean Living in Pain
Arthritis affects millions of Australians, causing joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Whether it’s osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or another form, this condition can make everyday tasks—from walking to gripping objects—challenging and painful.
While there is no cure for arthritis, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing symptoms, preserving mobility, and improving quality of life. At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon, we use evidence-based strategies to help individuals reduce pain, strengthen joints, and stay active.
In this guide, we’ll explore what arthritis is, its different types, and how physiotherapy can be a game-changer for arthritis management.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is an umbrella term for over 100 different conditions that cause joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain. The most common forms include:
Osteoarthritis (OA) – The Most Common Form
✔ Affects 56% of Australians with arthritis.
✔ More prevalent in individuals over 45 years old, but can occur at any age.
✔ Caused by joint cartilage degeneration, leading to pain, stiffness, and joint deformity.
✔ Symptoms worsen over time and may impact knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – An Autoimmune Condition
✔ Affects 14% of Australians with arthritis.
✔ The immune system attacks joint tissues, causing chronic inflammation and pain.
✔ Symptoms include joint swelling, morning stiffness, and progressive joint damage.
✔ Requires medical management alongside physiotherapy to reduce long-term complications.
Other Types of Arthritis
✔ Gout – Caused by uric acid crystal buildup in the joints, leading to sudden, severe pain.
✔ Ankylosing Spondylitis – Affects the spine, leading to progressive stiffness and reduced flexibility.
✔ Juvenile Arthritis – Affects children and adolescents, leading to joint inflammation and growth complications.
✔ Lupus (SLE) – An autoimmune disorder that affects multiple organs, including joints.
At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon, we tailor arthritis management programs based on diagnosis, symptoms, and functional goals.
How Can Physiotherapy Help with Arthritis?
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to manage arthritis symptoms and maintain mobility. While arthritis cannot be cured, exercise-based treatment and joint protection strategies significantly improve function and quality of life.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Arthritis
✅ Reduces pain and stiffness.
✅ Improves joint mobility and flexibility.
✅ Strengthens muscles to protect joints.
✅ Enhances functional movement and independence.
✅ Prevents secondary complications like muscle weakness and joint deformities.
At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon, we design safe and personalized exercise programs that help patients stay mobile and manage arthritis symptoms effectively.
A Grandmother’s Journey to Pain-Free Mobility
Margaret, a 68-year-old grandmother, had struggled with osteoarthritis in her knees for years. Simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, and playing with her grandchildren became increasingly painful. She feared she’d have to give up her active lifestyle.
After visiting Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage, she began a structured physiotherapy program that included:
✔ Manual therapy to reduce knee stiffness and improve joint mobility.
✔ Strengthening exercises to support her knee joints.
✔ Hydrotherapy sessions to reduce joint strain while improving mobility.
✔ Pain management education to help her stay active without worsening symptoms.
Within eight weeks, Margaret could walk longer distances and climb stairs with ease. More importantly, she regained the confidence to keep up with her grandchildren—proving that physiotherapy can make a life-changing difference.
Exercise-Based Physiotherapy for Arthritis
Exercise is the most effective non-surgical treatment for arthritis. Research shows that regular movement improves joint function, reduces pain, and enhances overall health.
1. Strengthening Exercises
✔ Builds muscle support around affected joints.
✔ Includes bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, or light weights.
✔ Stronger muscles reduce joint load and improve stability.
2. Flexibility & Mobility Exercises
✔ Reduces stiffness and maintains joint range of motion.
✔ Includes dynamic and static stretching techniques.
3. Aerobic Exercises
✔ Improves cardiovascular health and overall endurance.
✔ Includes walking, cycling, and swimming (low-impact to reduce joint strain).
At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage in Booragoon, we assess individual fitness levels and prescribe progressive exercise plans tailored to each patient’s arthritis symptoms and mobility goals.
How to Start Exercising with Arthritis
Starting an exercise routine with arthritis can be overwhelming, especially for individuals with chronic joint pain, but a physiotherapist provides guidance and progression to ensure safe and effective movement.
Key Considerations for Exercise with Arthritis:
✔ Start slow and gradually increase intensity as tolerance improves.
✔ Exercise regularly to see long-term benefits.
✔ Listen to your body—mild discomfort is normal, but sharp pain means overexertion.
✔ Modify activities to prevent joint strain.
Managing Pain During Exercise
Many people with arthritis fear that exercise will worsen pain, but movement is essential for long-term relief.
🔹 Joint movement lubricates cartilage, reducing stiffness and discomfort.
🔹 Strengthening muscles reduces joint stress, making daily activities easier.
🔹 Regular exercise prevents joint deterioration, slowing arthritis progression.
Pain Management Strategies for Exercise:
✔ Use heat therapy before exercise to relax stiff joints.
✔ Use cold therapy after exercise to reduce inflammation.
✔ Modify exercises as needed (reducing intensity, using assistive devices).
Why Early Physiotherapy Matters
✔ Prevents joint deterioration, reducing long-term pain.
✔ Improves mobility & strength, allowing easier daily movement.
✔ Provides education on proper movement & activity modification.
✔ Addresses underlying causes, ensuring long-term improvement.
Take Control of Your Arthritis Management
Arthritis is a lifelong condition, but with physiotherapy and exercise-based treatment, you can manage pain, stay mobile, and maintain an active lifestyle.
At Adaptive Physiotherapy & Massage, we create individualized treatment plans combining exercise, manual therapy, and pain management strategies to help you stay strong and independent.
If you’re struggling with arthritis pain and joint stiffness, contact us today for a comprehensive physiotherapy plan tailored to your needs. 🚀
References
- Bennell, K. L., et al. (2021). “Exercise therapy for osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” British Journal of Sports Medicine, 55(11), 643-650.
- Hunter, D. J., et al. (2019). “The role of physiotherapy in arthritis management.” The Lancet Rheumatology, 1(2), e98-e107.
- Fransen, M., et al. (2015). “Exercise for osteoarthritis of the knee: A Cochrane review.” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
- Svege, I., et al. (2015). “Effect of exercise therapy in rheumatoid arthritis.” Arthritis Care & Research, 67(2), 150-159.
- Senanik, P., et al. (2020). “Long-term benefits of physiotherapy for arthritis patients.” Journal of Physiotherapy Research, 68(5), 325-334.
