Osteoarthritis

Physiotherapy & Aromatherapy

Morning Side, Cannons Lane

Hatfield Broad Oak

Herts, CM22 7HX

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Osteoarthritis

Arthritis means inflammation of the joints, and Osteoarthritis is the most common form. It typically causes pain; stiffness and swelling of the affected joints, and can disrupt many daily activities.

The symptoms are because of damage to the cartilage that covers the bone ends in the joint. In severe cases, it may also disrupt the bone itself.

Some of the causes are:

	Age - the joints have been used more; the blood supply to the joint and healing mechanisms may be less efficient
	Weight - knee and hip arthritis are more likely to develop, or be more severe, in overweight people
	Genetics - there may be a link to family history

The symptoms of Osteoarthritis can be helped by losing weight, exercising regularly, strengthening muscles around the joint, using a walking aid and taking painkillers and supplements (only on GP's advice). There are also several physiotherapy treatments that can help to manage your pain.

It is important to remember that everyone is different. Levels of pain and disability vary enormously, as do the treatments that each individual finds beneficial.