Rehabilitation is a critical component of the recovery process following a sports injury, designed to restore function and prevent future injuries. While medications and other medical treatments are commonly used for pain management and initial healing, a structured rehabilitation plan is essential for a successful return to athletic performance.

A comprehensive sports physiotherapy program, guided by a certified physical therapist, addresses various facets of recovery, including pain relief, mobility enhancement, and injury prevention. The core elements of such a program often involve the RICE protocol, strengthening exercises, flexibility training, and range of motion improvement. Recent research suggests evolving approaches to these methods, particularly the reconsideration of ice and rest protocols in favour of active movement and gradual exercise.

Effective communication between the athlete and their healthcare team is crucial for tailoring rehabilitation strategies to individual needs and goals. By integrating therapeutic exercises, preventive strategies, and psychological support, sports physiotherapy not only aids in recovery but also enhances overall performance and resilience. This guide explores the key aspects of sports physiotherapy and how they contribute to a full and effective recovery.

Rest and Ice

Sports injury therapy focuses on helping people return to physical activity safely and optimally. This may include reducing pain and swelling, increasing range of motion and mobility and preventing re-injury.

The RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) protocol has been a common guideline for the treatment of injuries for decades. However, a growing amount of research indicates that ice and complete rest can actually delay healing by interfering with the body’s natural sequence of inflammation-pain-increased blood flow to the injured area. Keeping the injured area moving and doing a gentle, pain-free range of motion exercise has been shown to speed up recovery. Avoid routine icing as this can cause excessive tissue cooling. Instead, ice the injured area for 5-10 minutes on and then 10 minutes off for optimal effect.

Strengthening

A physical therapist can help you create an injury prevention program that strengthens key muscles and improves flexibility. These programs include exercises that prevent rotator cuff pain, shoulder stiffness, back pain and hip pain. They also focus on proper training techniques and warm-up strategies.

The timing of these activities is important – a patient’s exercise regimen should begin as soon as possible to minimise the aggravation of the injured body part. In addition, physical therapy can include a variety of techniques, including massages, therapeutic exercises and assistive devices.

Although ideally, rehabilitation interventions should be customised to a person’s health conditions and needs, this may be beyond the capacity of providers in the community and primary health centers, as well as some hospitals. In these cases, standardised interventions can be equally effective and may reduce costs.

Flexibility

Flexibility refers to the ability of muscles and joints to move through a full range of motion, which is crucial for a healthy, strong, and functional body. Flexibility also helps prevent injury and improves performance and posture.

Athletes often see sports physiotherapists to help them return to their pre-injury levels of physical function and athletic performance. The process includes rehabilitation of the injury itself as well as the psychological and nutritional aspects of recovery.

Rehabilitation can reduce the impact of many health conditions, including chronic diseases and injuries. It can improve quality of life, and empower people to manage their health and take control. It can also reduce disability by providing assistive products, self-management strategies and pain relief. It can even help prevent a number of complications from developing in the first place.

Range of Motion

Depending on the injury, you may have limited range of motion in one or more of your joints. This can be caused by a sprained joint, tight muscles or ligaments, swelling of tissue around the injured area, or a general lack of movement due to injury.

A physical therapist can help improve your range of motion through active or passive exercises, which are designed to stretch the muscles and joints beyond what your body naturally allows. This can increase flexibility and reduce pain in the affected area.

When introducing an active range of motion exercise, it’s important to gradually progress the exercises so that you don’t cause more damage to the injury. This will also prevent re-injury. Clear and open communication between you and the physical therapist can help you build trust and ensure that you’re following an effective rehabilitation program.

Communication

Sports injuries can be devastating and debilitating. Recovery from them is long and difficult, but if athletes have the right attitude, they can use physical therapy for sports rehabilitation as their secret weapon to exceed their previous performance levels once again.

To achieve this, it is essential that they communicate with qualified healthcare professionals such as physicians and licensed physical therapists throughout the process. Having high-quality communication with the injured athlete ensures that they are up-to-date on their injury and that they are working towards specific goals that have been identified through assessments. Goals are important to help the athlete stay motivated and focused on their recovery. It takes two to tango, so it is also important that the athlete is open to communicating with their physiotherapist.

Achieving Optimal Recovery

Injury recovery is a multifaceted journey that requires a balanced approach combining pain management, physical therapy, and proactive rehabilitation strategies. By adhering to a well-structured sports physiotherapy program and maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals, athletes can expedite their recovery, reduce the risk of future injuries, and return to their peak performance. For expert guidance and support throughout your recovery process, visit Specific Physiotherapy‘s website at https://specificphysiotherapy.com.au/. Embracing these principles ensures a comprehensive and effective rehabilitation process, paving the way for long-term athletic success and overall well-being.

Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a critical component of allied health professions that focuses on the physical rehabilitation, injury prevention, and health maintenance of individuals. It involves the use of manual therapy, exercise, and various physical modalities to improve mobility, strength, and function. This article explores the essential role of physiotherapy in allied health and its evidence-based impact on patient outcomes.

Historical Context and Evolution

Physiotherapy has evolved significantly since its inception in the early 20th century. Initially centered around massage and exercise, it has expanded to include a wide range of specialised treatments. Advances in medical technology, research, and a deeper understanding of human physiology have propelled the profession forward, making physiotherapists indispensable in modern healthcare teams.

Core Principles of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is grounded in several core principles:

• Individualised Care: Tailoring treatment plans to meet the specific needs and goals of each patient.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Utilising the latest research to inform clinical decision-making and ensure effective interventions.
• Holistic Approach: Addressing the physical, emotional, and social aspects of patient care.
• Prevention and Education: Focusing on preventing injuries and educating patients about maintaining optimal health.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Allied Health

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Physiotherapists work closely with other healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, and speech therapists, to provide comprehensive care. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive holistic treatment, addressing all facets of their health and well-being.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation and recovery of patients following surgery, injury, or illness. For example, after orthopedic surgeries such as joint replacements, physiotherapists at Excel Body & Health design and implement rehabilitation programs to restore mobility, strength, and function. They also work with patients recovering from strokes, helping to regain lost motor skills and improve independence.

Pain Management

Chronic pain is a significant health issue affecting millions worldwide. Physiotherapists at the Ivanhoe physio clinic employ various techniques such as manual therapy, exercise, and electrotherapy to manage pain and improve quality of life. Studies have shown that physiotherapy interventions can reduce pain levels and decrease the need for medication, particularly in conditions like lower back pain, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia.

Preventative Health

Physiotherapists play a key role in preventive health by educating patients on injury prevention, ergonomics, and healthy lifestyle choices. This proactive approach helps reduce the incidence of injuries and chronic conditions, leading to improved long-term health outcomes.

Evidence-Based Impact on Patient Outcomes

Musculoskeletal Conditions

Research has consistently demonstrated the effectiveness of physiotherapy in treating musculoskeletal conditions. For example, a systematic review published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that exercise therapy, a cornerstone of physiotherapy, significantly improves outcomes in patients with chronic low back pain. Similarly, physiotherapy interventions have been shown to reduce pain and improve function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Neurological Rehabilitation

In neurological rehabilitation, physiotherapy has proven to be highly effective. A study published in Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair highlighted that physiotherapy interventions, including task-specific training and motor relearning, significantly enhance motor function and independence in stroke survivors. Another study in The Lancet Neurology reported that early and intensive physiotherapy improves outcomes in patients with spinal cord injuries.

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy is integral to cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs, particularly for patients recovering from heart attacks or living with chronic respiratory diseases like COPD. A meta-analysis in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that physiotherapy-led cardiac rehabilitation programs significantly reduce mortality and improve cardiovascular fitness. Additionally, respiratory physiotherapy techniques such as breathing exercises and airway clearance are vital in managing conditions like cystic fibrosis and asthma.

Pediatric Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is also essential in pediatric care, particularly for children with developmental disorders, cerebral palsy, or muscular dystrophy. Evidence suggests that early intervention by physiotherapists can significantly improve motor skills, functional abilities, and overall quality of life in these children.

Challenges and Future Directions

Access to Care

Despite its benefits, access to physiotherapy services remains a challenge in many regions due to financial, geographical, and systemic barriers. Efforts to improve access, such as telehealth physiotherapy services, are gaining traction and showing promise in bridging the gap.

Continued Research and Education

Ongoing research is crucial to advancing physiotherapy practices and improving patient outcomes. Physiotherapists must stay abreast of the latest evidence and continue their professional development to provide the highest standard of care.

Integrating Technology

The integration of technology, such as virtual reality and wearable devices, offers exciting possibilities for enhancing physiotherapy interventions. These innovations can provide real-time feedback, increase patient engagement, and improve treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

Physiotherapy is an essential component of allied health, with a substantial evidence-based impact on patient outcomes across various conditions and populations. Its role in rehabilitation, pain management, prevention, and education highlights the profession’s versatility and importance in modern healthcare. As research and technology continue to advance, physiotherapy will undoubtedly play an even more critical role in improving health and quality of life for individuals worldwide.

Physiotherapy can be a great way to relieve pain, improve balance and reduce anxiety. However, finding a clinic that offers all these benefits isn’t always easy.

Here are 5 signs you’ve found a quality physiotherapy clinic. Read on for more: 1. They are transparent about pricing and sessions. (No surprise hidden fees here!) They also use online reviews to showcase their client-centred approach.

1. You Feel Comfortable
Physiotherapists are university-qualified allied health professionals who specialise in the assessment, treatment and management of pain, injury and chronic health conditions. They support people from birth to old age, helping them to manage pain, reduce injury risk and improve overall health and wellbeing.

When you visit a quality physiotherapy clinic, you should feel at ease, comfortable and safe. This is because you will be treated one-on-one by a physical therapist who will understand your needs and concerns. The therapist will also have a clear understanding of your condition and the underlying cause of your pain, which will help them come up with a tailored treatment plan.

The physical therapist you see should also be resourceful and willing to try new treatments. They should be open to the idea of asking for help from other members of their team if necessary. This demonstrates that they are always looking for the best ways to improve patient outcomes. A good clinic will also be transparent about how much their services cost so you can make an informed decision.

2. You Feel Safe
Physiotherapists are trained to identify and manage health conditions that limit your ability to perform normal everyday tasks, including walking, eating, and even breathing. They understand that the road to recovery from a condition is rarely a straight line of progress, and they know how important it is to encourage patients to work together towards their goal.

A reputable clinic will also take the time to communicate with your GP or specialist to make sure that they have a comprehensive understanding of your case. This is essential to ensure that your physiotherapist can provide you with the best treatment possible and to avoid any misdiagnosis.

Finally, a quality clinic should be transparent about their pricing. If they aren’t, or you have to call in to find out more, this could be a sign that they are hiding something. A good physiotherapist will also be able to clearly explain what services they offer, and which are the most appropriate for your condition. They should not rely on unproven or “alternative” treatment techniques that have no scientific backing.

3. You Feel Like You’re in Good Hands
When it comes to your health, you want to know you’re in good hands. If you find yourself in a clinic that doesn’t make you feel this way, keep searching for better options.

A quality physiotherapy clinic will ensure you are well taken care of from the moment you walk in the door. They will have private treatment rooms and a spacious gym space equipped with the right tools to help you get better.

The therapists are knowledgeable and will listen to you. They should ask what your goals are and tailor the treatment plan to meet those needs. They also understand that everyone is different and will offer you alternative solutions if yours doesn’t work.

If you want to check on the quality of a physiotherapy clinic before visiting it, look for reviews online. Be sure to read the negative and positive feedback – even the best clinics will have some bad reviews. A good sign is that a clinic has a high volume of positive feedback from both new and returning patients.

4. You Feel Like You’re in Control
Physiotherapists are university-qualified allied health professionals who specialise in managing a wide range of conditions that affect your movement and function. These include neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis and brain injury. They can also help with non-neurological conditions such as chronic pain, osteoarthritis, back and neck pain, and sports injuries.

A quality physiotherapy clinic will offer a clear list of ailments and treatments they specialise in. They will be able to clearly explain the treatment options available, and which are the most appropriate for your condition. They will be happy to work with your other healthcare providers, and they’ll provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your care.

A good physiotherapy clinic will be flexible when it comes to scheduling appointments. They’ll be willing to adapt your appointment times to fit your schedule, and they’ll offer flexible payment options. They’ll also be able to answer your questions promptly and effectively. They’ll do what they say they’ll do, and they’ll keep you updated about your progress throughout the process.

5. You Feel Like You’re Getting Results
This one goes without saying, but the quality of the physiotherapists and their ability to produce results is what makes or breaks clinics. It’s not enough to just treat the symptoms – they need to identify and solve the underlying issues that are causing them.

For example, if you’re struggling to get a good night’s sleep it could be caused by a variety of factors ranging from back pain or muscle problems to an injury or health condition that affects your vestibular system (your inner ear). physiotherapist will be able to find the source of the problem and work with you to create a treatment plan to alleviate discomfort and improve balance and coordination.

You should start to see an improvement in your daily function after a few sessions. If you’re still struggling to accomplish the things you love to do, it may be time to look for a different physiotherapy practice.

To experience top-notch physiotherapy care, visit Powerhouse Physiotherapy at powerhousephysio.com.au.Their experienced team ensures a comfortable, safe, and effective treatment tailored to your needs, helping you regain control over your health and achieve lasting results.

Clinical Pilates is a safe and effective method for improving joint flexibility, alleviating stiffness and reducing chronic pain. Unlike traditional treatment methods, this form of exercise provides long-term relief.

The controlled flowing movements of Pilates improve balance and body posture, minimizing the risk of falls in older adults. It also teaches healthy movement patterns and creates a strong mind-body connection that promotes wellness.

Strengthening

The Pilates method is based on control and precision, requiring the body to be aligned and moving as a unified unit. This type of training helps strengthen the core muscles, improve alignment and reduce imbalances in the joints. This can protect the lower limbs from overuse and excessive stress.

For example, poor posture and back pain can often be attributed to a weakness in the deep abdominal muscles known as the transverse abdominus. Clinical pilates classes in Toowoomba incorporate a variety of exercises to help strengthen this muscle, leading to improved spinal support and reduced back pain.

This approach to movement also increases proprioception (the awareness of the body’s position in space), which can be a great asset in injury prevention. It can help you avoid those little missteps that often lead to a stress fracture or callus forming on the foot.

Podiatrists often use the principals of Pilates to help develop stronger core muscles that take pressure off the feet and ankles to prevent excessive loading and stressors on the feet that can cause injuries like stress fractures.

It can be hard to believe, but the benefits of Pilates extend beyond a strong core and reduced back pain. The Pilates practice can also help improve dynamic balance, flexibility and coordination, which are all important in reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

Stability

Pilates teaches the body to move in a harmonious and balanced way, which supports core strength, stability and balance. This helps with injury prevention and a healthy lifestyle. It is particularly beneficial for those who have suffered from a sports injury or who are undergoing rehabilitation. It is often utilised by elite athletes as it improves performance and reduces the risk of injury, and also helps to speed up recovery times.

Unlike many traditional workouts that focus on superficial muscles, Pilates delves deeper, engaging those muscles that are normally inactive and helping them to strengthen and heal faster. The reformer machine in particular promotes elongation and lengthening of the muscles, which helps prevent imbalances that can cause stiffness and pain in other areas.

The benefits of Pilates extend to the feet, too. By performing Pilates exercises barefoot and using various pieces of equipment including the foot corrector and toe tension meter, Pilates can enhance the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles that support the arch of the foot. This improves foot stability and prevents abnormal movement patterns that can lead to flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or excessive pressure in certain areas

Maintaining good balance as you age is important in preventing falls and injuries, but it’s also crucial for day-to-day activities like walking, getting up out of chairs, picking things up off the floor and catching yourself if you’re about to fall. Pilates can help to improve balance by targeting the core and using props like a pole, dowel or broomstick.

Flexibility

The practice of Pilates teaches you to move through a full range of motion while strengthening and lengthening muscles. This flexibility training helps to prevent muscle tightness and stiffness while improving posture.

In addition, the exercises in a Pilates class can be adapted to different fitness levels and goals. This flexibility and strength-building exercise is low-impact, making it a good choice for people who have injury-related pain or joint problems.

It also can help you to build stronger and leaner muscles, which means that you will have more control of your movements. In turn, this can reduce the risk of injuries and improve your performance in any sport or activity.

As you continue to work your muscles, you will find that balance and stability also improve as a result of Pilates. This is important as it can help you to avoid falls and injury and stay active as you age.

To help with your balance, try picking things off the floor with your feet (such as a ping-pong ball or pencil). This will challenge your muscles and make you think about how you are using your feet. You can also strengthen the foot and ankle by using Pilates exercises, such as heel lifts, toe curls, and standing on one leg. This will help to strengthen the small muscles of the feet that support the arch and improve your balance.

Injury Prevention

A recurring muscle strain can be a major setback in reaching your fitness goals, especially if it prevents you from exercising. The good news is that with the help of Toowoomba podiatry, there are many injury prevention exercises you can use to keep your body healthy and strong.

One of the key factors that contributes to exercise-related injuries is muscular imbalance. This can be caused by weak or unstable muscles, tight muscles, and/or restricted joint mobility. Pilates is designed to address these imbalances by promoting proper movement patterns and restoring muscle balance and symmetry.

As a bonus, Pilates is a low-impact workout, so it is less likely to cause injury than other types of exercises. In addition, Pilates instructors are trained to modify and adjust exercises to accommodate different fitness levels and physical limitations. This makes Pilates an excellent option for seniors who are looking for a safe and effective way to improve their strength, balance and flexibility.

The control and precision emphasized in Pilates can translate into improved performance during everyday activities, such as running, hiking, playing sports and even walking. It can also help you avoid the nagging injuries that can sometimes be overlooked, like a stress fracture or tendonitis. Often, these symptoms are difficult to diagnose because they manifest as a nagging pain that comes and goes. However, with a little bit of awareness and guidance from your podiatrist, you can minimize the risk of injuries and stay fit all year round.

When researching cosmetic procedures, it can be confusing when terms like plastic surgeon and cosmetic surgeon are used interchangeably. Although these medical specialties do share some common ground, their philosophies, research and training are distinct from one another.

Knowing the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and plastic surgeon can help you choose the right doctor for your procedure.

Qualifications

When it comes to finding a surgeon who is qualified and experienced in the procedures you want. It’s important to understand the differences between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery. The terms are often used interchangeably, but the distinctions are important for patients to know.

According to a 2017 study, most individuals were confused by the use of varying terminology. For instance, 87 percent of the respondents incorrectly thought that special credentials and additional training are required for a doctor to call themselves an aesthetic, cosmetic, or plastic surgeon. This is not the case. While a board certified plastic surgeon has completed a residency and two-year plastic surgery fellowship, these programs typically do not include cosmetic surgery training.

Cosmetic surgery is the process of enhancing a person’s appearance using surgical techniques that focus on improving structure and function. It is considered an elective procedure, meaning that it is not covered by insurance providers. This is in contrast to reconstructive plastic surgery, which is typically deemed medically necessary after trauma or an illness.

During your consultation, it’s important to compare physicians’ backgrounds, education, and board certifications to find the right one for your needs. You can also ask for referrals from friends or family members who have undergone similar procedures. In addition, you should ask about a physician’s post-residency training and practice history to assess their level of expertise in the specific procedures you’re considering.

Procedures

The main difference between cosmetic surgeon and plastic surgeon is that the latter offers elective procedures for aesthetic purposes. Plastic surgery on the other hand includes reconstructive procedures like cleft lip and palate repair, breast reconstruction after mastectomy, skin flaps for burns, hand surgery, and facial surgeries to help patients with conditions such as scoliosis.

While both types of surgeons have the skill to perform the procedures you want, it is important that you do your research before choosing a physician. You should look at the doctor’s credentials and training, as well as patient reviews and before and after photos to find a surgeon you trust. If you’re considering a cosmetic procedure, you should choose a board certified plastic surgeon who can offer you a wide range of options.

It is easy to see why the terms cosmetic surgeon and plastic surgeon can be confusing, as they are often used interchangeably. But, it’s important to understand that there is a significant difference between the two titles, as this can have an impact on your results and recovery time. Plastic surgeons have extensive surgical training and experience, which gives them the expertise to provide a variety of reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. They also have the knowledge and understanding to meet a patient’s individual needs. This is something that many cosmetic surgeons lack.

Recovery

The difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery may seem minor, but there are important distinctions that can be made when researching prospective surgeons. While both surgeons specialize in improving the body, their training and research focus are very different. This is a crucial fact to understand, as it could affect your recovery time and results.

Plastic surgery is a medical specialty that encompasses reconstructive work as well as aesthetic improvements to the face and body. It focuses on restoring damaged or abnormal body parts, like injuries caused by trauma/accidents or birth defects. It is often considered a medically necessary procedure and may be covered by health insurance.

Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, is an elective procedure that enhances a patient’s appearance. It is often requested by patients to correct imperfections or reshape certain areas of the body for a more attractive look. Cosmetic procedures include breast lifts, tummy tucks and facial rejuvenation.

Cosmetic surgeries are generally performed on an outpatient basis and require a shorter recovery period than many other types of surgical procedures. It is important to follow the aftercare guidelines provided by your surgeon to ensure a smooth and healthy recovery. For example, it is important to avoid alcohol and heavy exercise while recovering from cosmetic surgery. These activities can delay the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

Costs

The costs associated with plastic surgery vary widely. Some surgeons may separately bill components, such as facility fees and anesthesia fees, which can quickly add up. Dean White plastic surgeon is committed to providing transparent pricing and will only charge for what is needed to perform your procedure safely and effectively.

We encourage you to seek out quotes for your cosmetic procedure from multiple surgeons. However, you should be wary of prices that appear too low as this could indicate a lower standard of care. In many cases, a lower price is the result of cutting corners somewhere in the process. This can be dangerous for your health and safety, especially when it comes to something as vital as a surgical procedure.

Depending on the type of cosmetic procedure you’re seeking, some or all of the costs may be covered by insurance. However, it is important to remember that healthcare costs are continuing to rise and patients are increasingly responsible for higher deductibles, coinsurance and copayments.

It’s important to consider these increasing out of pocket expenses when evaluating your options for plastic surgery. It is also important to consider the benefits of nonsurgical alternatives, such as weight loss through diet and exercise. Cosmetic surgery is a serious commitment and should be reserved for only those who truly need it.

Associate Professor Dean White
The Avani Building, Suite 1, Level 1/12 Nelson Rd, Box Hill VIC 3128
(03) 9895 7631

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Osteoarthritis can affect the knees, hips, wrists, hands or spine. It can also cause pain and stiffness in other joints.

It is important to get a diagnosis, especially if you have been experiencing symptoms for a long time. Your GP may refer you for physiotherapy, podiatry or occupational therapy to help with pain management.

Exercise

Exercise is a vital component of managing OA symptoms. It can strengthen the muscles that support your joints, improve balance and flexibility, and increase overall fitness. It can also help you manage your weight, which can reduce pressure on painful joints. It’s important to talk to a health professional about your exercise program, so that they can ensure it is suitable for you and safe for your joint condition. Osteopath Balwyn North can provide appropriate exercise programs, including strength training, stretching and aerobic exercises on land or water. In some cases, surgery to repair or replace the damaged joint may be required, but this is usually only considered when all other options have been explored.

Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, regular exercise can keep the joints healthy and flexible, improve muscle strength and energy, limit loss of bone density and maintain a good weight to relieve stress on the joints. If your arthritis is in a weight bearing joint, such as the knee or hip, doing strengthening exercises that target those muscles can be particularly helpful. Exercises that can help include triceps extensions (holding a weight overhead, keeping elbows bent) and side lateral raises. Alternatively, a wall push-up (stand with feet about 12 inches away from a wall and place hands a little wider than shoulders) can be a great option for people who can’t do conventional push-ups.

Massage

Osteoarthritis (OA) develops when the cartilage and other tissues in a joint break down. This usually happens gradually over time, but can be triggered by an injury, or by changing patterns of movement that put stress on the joint (for example, repetitive motions like using a computer keyboard).

The most common symptoms are pain and stiffness with difficulty moving the affected joint and, sometimes, swelling, tenderness and a crackling sound when you move the joint. Symptoms vary from person to person and different joints are affected. Symptoms can range from mild and come and go to so severe that they stop you doing daily activities, such as getting out of bed, standing on one leg or holding a cup of coffee.

Treatment can include pain relief medicines, physiotherapy, self-management and changes to diet and lifestyle. It’s important to keep up with daily activities, as not enough movement can cause muscle weakness, worsening joint pain and stiffness and increase the risk of further damage to the joint.

In a small number of cases, surgery may be needed to repair, strengthen or replace the damaged joint. This can be done on the knees, hips, elbows, wrists, fingers, toes or spine. This can relieve pain and improve function and quality of life. It is most commonly used in the knees, hips and ankles.

Nutrition

Keeping a healthy weight, regular exercise and eating a balanced diet can help to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis. A dietary program can include lots of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy and healthy oils (such as olive and canola). Nuts, fish and avocado also contain good amounts of omega-3. Certain foods like garlic and onions contain a component called diallyl disulfide which is known to slow down the deterioration of cartilage.

X-rays and blood tests may be used to look for narrowing of the joints, or other signs of damage to the joints. However, an x-ray doesn’t tell how much pain or stiffness you will have, and some people have little pain from a lot of joint damage.

Early, nonsurgical treatment can maintain joint mobility and improve strength. Most treatment programs combine lifestyle changes, medication and physical therapy. Acetaminophen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce pain and swelling. Some people need steroid injections directly into the joints to relieve inflammation and pain. Surgery can be helpful if conservative treatments don’t ease pain and improve function. Surgery can involve joining two bones together or replacing the damaged ends of the bone, most often in knees, hips, shoulders, wrists, thumbs and ankles.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common and most disabling chronic diseases affecting older adults. It can cause pain and stiffness in the joints, especially those used for walking or climbing stairs. The pain tends to come and go, and it’s often worse in the morning or after prolonged rest. The pain may be accompanied by a click, crackle or grinding sound as the joints move, called crepitus.

Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep can help you cope with the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis. It’s important to try to go to bed at the same time each night and avoid sleeping in positions that cause joint pressure. It’s also helpful to use pillows to take pressure off painful joints. Using hot or cold packs can help to ease pain and inflammation by increasing blood flow to the affected area.

Regular exercise is one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis. It keeps the joints healthy and flexible, helps you lose weight and can reduce symptoms. However, it’s important not to overdo it as doing too much or doing the wrong sort of exercise can damage your joints.

You may need to see a health professional (such as a GP or a physiotherapist) to get a diagnosis of osteoarthritis and to develop a management plan. This will usually involve lifestyle modifications, medication and/or physical therapy.

NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen) can reduce pain, stiffness and swelling. These can be taken as tablets or in a cream, gel or spray. Stronger painkillers such as oxycodone or codeine are sometimes used but are only recommended for short periods because they can have more serious side effects. Occasionally, doctors will inject steroids directly into a joint to relieve pain. This can be for very painful arthritic joints, to relieve sudden severe pain or to treat a specific condition such as gout.