What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is very common and can effect any of the joints in the body. Cartilage is the layer between our joints (where bone meets bone) that helps to keep our joints moving smoothly and absorb shock. However, in osteoarthritis the cartilage wears down becoming thinner and this can cause pain and restriction on movement and the sensation of stiffness. If the cartilage wears down too much there can be changes in the bony structure in the joint. Please also note that wear and tear happens as a part of the normal aging process. On the outside of our bodies we can see the hair going grey and maybe a wrinkle or 2!! The exact same happens on the inside of the body but we are unaware of it. This process is slow and happens gradually and our body is smart and learns to adapt to these micro changes. In osteoarthritis this process is sped up and the body can respond with symptoms such as pain, aches and stiffness.
What causes osteoarthritis?
Genetics, previous injuries to the area, increased weight and diet can all play a factor in developing osteoarthritis.
How to help your joints to age gracefully:
- Maintaining a normal healthy weight.
- Low impact exercises for example cycling, swimming, yoga/pilates, pool walking or running.
- Physiotherapy treatment to help reduce pain and improve mobility with specific exercises.
- Eating healthy nutritious foods.
- Wearing appropriate footwear.
- Minimising load and stress on the joints where possible.
- Massaging around the joint to help keep the muscles supple.
- Movement is your best friend, keep moving to help maintain mobility. Motion is lotion for your joints.
To book in for your consultation for more specific advice and exercises or to join any of the classes, contact the clinic on 0873319883 or email info@tmphysiotherapy.ie.
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