There are many different types of arthritis and osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis at the knee. Osteoarthritis involves the gradual degeneration of a joint, whereby the cartilage gradually wears away -which is why osteoarthritis is often referred to as “wear and tear.”
Symptoms include pain and stiffness after rest, pain after activity, swelling and loss of movement. In fact, stiffness in the morning (after bed rest) is a common feature of osteoarthritis.
At IONA Physiotherapy, following a detailed history, your assessment will include gait analysis (looking at how you walk), checking for any swelling, assessment of your range of motion, lower limb flexibility, your lower limb muscle strength and other specific knee tests if indicated.
Treatment may include manual therapy to improve movement and reduce pain, an exercise programme to improve muscle strength/flexibility and possibly advice regarding the use of a stick.
If swelling is present, you may need to use ice to help reduce the swelling and your G.P. may have prescribed NSAID’s (non steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs.)
If the osteoarthritis is advanced, then an arthroscopy (key hole surgery) or a knee replacement may be required. After your surgery, you will require physiotherapy to restore normal movement, strength and function.
