Arthritis can affect people at every age, but the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis (OA). This generally affects people who are older or have had some trauma to their joints. Osteopaths see many patients who have arthritic pain of varying types.

The most common form of arthritis: OA

Joints start off very smooth and glassy. As we age or with trauma the surfaces can become more rough and pitted which can cause irritation as they move, particularly under load. This can lead to local inflammation, in turn causing swelling, joint stiffness and pain. Adaptation from the body when trying to reduce movement or strain can also lead to compensation from other joints. Trauma in this context can be as simple as overuse, for example you might develop right sided hip OA in response to a left knee problem. Similarly, significant sports injuries or surgery can lead to arthritic joints later on.

Osteoarthritis of the hip & knee

Millions of people suffer from OA of the hip or knee with hundreds of thousands more being diagnosed every year. We all know someone who’s had a replacement joint although there is a long process to get there. Surgeons don’t want to replace joints too soon, as the replacement has a lifespan; but equally, people don’t want to be in pain any longer than they need to be. Osteopaths are good at improving flexibility, and this extends to arthritic joints as well. We work to maintain extension through the hip, and through the knee to help with gait and balance.

When you lose flexibility in the hip or knee on one side, it puts pressure through the other side, the lower back, or elsewhere. The impact can travel as far as to cause headaches.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects the whole body, but it tends to show up in the smaller joints such as the wrists, knuckles, neck and ankles. RA loosens the ligaments, which is the bit that can lead to joint deformity, and, in the top of the neck, this is particularly important, because without strong ligaments, the control and support of the neck is compromised. This is very important to us as osteopaths as we want to be safe, and our techniques are chosen with this in mind. My style of osteopathy is extremely gentle, and manipulation is a tool I use only when necessary and only after discussion with my patient.

If we thought RA was a likely diagnosis, we would refer you via your GP to get confirmation via a blood test and a rheumatologist. More details about RA

…but we see many patients for symptomatic relief. If we can ease tension, and improve flexibility within the joints and surrounding tissues, you’ll feel more comfortable.

How We Treat Arthritis

Osteopaths can’t fix arthritis, but we can help the body accommodate it and adapt to it. We work on the affected joints to improve mobility and flexibility within the area; reduce muscle tension, and much of our work is then focused on the areas surrounding and supporting the arthritic joint. We use techniques such as soft tissue techniques and mobilisation, as well as prescribing exercises to improve function elsewhere.

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