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Condition Guide

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis can cause joint pain, stiffness and difficulty with movement. Physiotherapy can help support strength, mobility, function and confidence so that daily activities remain as manageable as possible.

Physiotherapy practice room used for osteoarthritis assessment at Marna Webb Physiotherapy in Tulbagh

Overview

Understanding Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that can cause pain, stiffness and reduced function.

It can affect different joints, including the knees, hips, hands, spine and shoulders.

Symptoms vary widely, and arthritis does not always worsen continuously over time.

At a Glance

  • Common symptoms: Joint pain, Stiffness after rest, Swelling or tenderness.
  • Common contributors: Joint changes over time, Previous injury or surgery, Age-related risk.
  • Recovery varies by: severity, duration, irritability, general health and activity demands.
  • Physiotherapy may help: when symptoms affect movement, function or confidence.

Common Symptoms

Joint pain

Stiffness after rest

Swelling or tenderness

Grating or crackling sounds

Difficulty with walking, stairs or gripping

Reduced confidence with activity

Why Does It Happen?

Several factors may contribute, and the most relevant factors vary between people.

Joint changes over time

Previous injury or surgery

Age-related risk

Family history

Higher body weight increasing load

Reduced strength or physical activity

When Should I Seek Urgent Medical Attention?

Seek prompt medical assessment if symptoms are associated with:

  • Hot, red, very swollen joint with fever
  • Sudden severe pain
  • Unable to weight-bear
  • Pain after trauma
  • Unexplained weight loss or feeling very unwell
  • Rapidly worsening symptoms

These symptoms do not automatically mean that a serious condition is present, but they should be assessed promptly by an appropriate medical professional.

Physiotherapy Assessment

Symptom history and affected joints

Movement and function

Strength and balance

Walking, stairs or hand function

Activity goals

Screening for inflammatory or serious causes

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Treatment is individualised and may include:

Education and self-management

Joint-friendly strengthening

Mobility and balance exercises

Activity pacing

Walking or functional rehabilitation

Referral guidance when needed

Recovery and What to Expect

Osteoarthritis is usually a long-term condition, but symptoms can improve. The goal is to reduce flare-ups, improve function and keep people moving safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can osteoarthritis improve?

Symptoms can improve even though the condition is long-term.

Is exercise safe?

Appropriate exercise is usually helpful and important.

Do X-rays show pain levels?

X-ray changes do not always match symptom severity.

Will I need surgery?

Only some people require surgery. Many benefit from conservative care.

Can I book via WhatsApp?

Yes.

Evidence Corner

Guidelines commonly support education, exercise, weight management where relevant, pain-management strategies and function-focused rehabilitation for osteoarthritis.

Treatment recommendations should combine current evidence, clinical expertise and your individual assessment.

Marna’s Clinical Perspective

Arthritis does not mean you must stop moving. The right type and amount of movement can be powerful medicine.

Marna’s Tip

Start with small, repeatable movement habits. Consistency often matters more than intensity.

Related Resources

Patient Guide

Resource in development

Video

Resource in development

Recovery Programme

Resource in development

Recommended Exercises

Exercises should be selected according to the individual assessment. Exercise links remain marked as Resource in development until approved by Marna Webb.

Joint mobility

Resource in development

Strength training

Resource in development

Balance work

Resource in development

Walking progression

Resource in development

Sit-to-stand practice

Resource in development

Low-impact conditioning

Resource in development

Need Help With Osteoarthritis?

Contact Marna Webb Physiotherapy for an individual assessment and treatment plan.