Arthritis – how osteopathy can help

What is arthritis?

There are many types of arthritis, but osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common.

Osteoarthritis (OA)

The most common type of arthritis causes joints to feel stiff and painful. Joints may swell and change shape, even making creaking noises when used. You can suffer muscle loss around the joint or even see bony swelling around the edges of the joint.

OA is caused by a loss of cartilage, a natural material in your joints which acts like a shock absorber. This means where two bones meet they no longer have a cushion between them causing you pain and inflammation.

It is more usual for OA to affect bigger joints such as knees and hips.

Osteoarthritis is most common in people over 45 and those with a family history of the condition.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

The condition is caused when your immune system starts to attack the joints, rather than protect them. The body mistakes the synovium, a tissue lining around the joint for a foreign entity and attacks it, also resulting in inflammation and swelling.

The smaller joints in the fingers, toes and wrists are most affected by RA.

Symptoms

There are many symptoms, and they vary according to which type you have. If you suffer from any of the following you should consult a medical professional:

• Joint stiffness, pain and tenderness
• Inflammation in and around the joints
• Restricted movement of joints
• Red skin over the affected joints

How can osteopathy help?

Osteopathy is a recommended treatment for arthritis. We use our knowledge of the condition and our understanding of the patient to tailor your treatment and help maintain a high quality of life.

OA – by targeting the individual joints, your treatment may include massage, articulation, laser therapy and dry needling. The aim is to reduce your pain, increase your mobility and improve muscle weaknesses.

RA – due to the inflammatory nature of the condition a more holistic approach is needed to help your body heal itself. We will target the areas that are most effected, whilst also encouraging the body to fight inflammation by increasing lymphatic flow and improving circulation to the areas affected.

Book an appointment today to see if we can help you with arthritic pain.

You can book online here, or call 07762 576 492 to speak with our receptionist.