Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease caused by the wear and tear of the joints.
cartilage layer between the ends of the bones. Osteoarthritis can lead to pain, stiffness, inflammation and restricted movement. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but it most commonly affects the knees, hips, spine and fingers.
Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but there are various ways to alleviate the symptoms and improve quality of life. One of these is physiotherapy, which deals with the treatment of physical dysfunctions through targeted exercises and applications.
How does osteoarthritis develop?
The exact causes of osteoarthritis are not yet fully understood, but there are a number of factors that can increase the risk. These include
- Hereditary predisposition
- Metabolic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus
- Congenital deformities, such as knock knees or bow legs
- Injuries, such as cruciate ligament injuries or meniscus damage
- Long-term overload, such as obesity or extreme sporting activity or hard physical work
Osteoarthritis is caused by an imbalance between the build-up and breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is an elastic tissue that covers the ends of bones and acts as a shock absorber. It is constantly being renewed and repaired, but if this process is disrupted, the cartilage can become thinner and cracked. This causes the bones to rub against each other and wear out. In addition, bony outgrowths called osteophytes can form on the edges of the joints. These can also cause pain and restricted movement.
How does osteoarthritis manifest itself?
The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on the joint affected and the severity of the disease. The most common signs are
- Pain when the joint is stressed or moved
- Stiffness after periods of rest or in the morning
- Restricted mobility of the joint
- Cracking or crunching in the joint
- Swelling or redness of the joint
- Deformation or misalignment of the joint
The symptoms can worsen or improve in phases. Some people only have mild symptoms, while others experience severe restrictions in everyday life.
How can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy is an important measure in the treatment of osteoarthritis. It has several objectives:
- Relieve pain
- Inhibit inflammation
- Improve mobility
- Strengthen muscles
- Avoid incorrect strain
- Promote self-management
Physiotherapy includes various methods that are individually tailored to the patient. These include
Strength training
Strength training aims to strengthen the muscles that guide and support the affected joint. This reduces the pressure on the cartilage and increases stability. Strength training should be dosed and carried out regularly. Care should be taken to ensure correct execution and not provoke pain.
Mobilization
Mobilization is used to loosen stiff joints and increase their mobility. This involves passive or active movements that stretch the joint in different directions. Mobilization should be gentle and slow and should not cause pain.
Weight-bearing training
The aim of weight-bearing training is to accustom the joint to a moderate and controlled load. This stimulates the blood circulation and metabolism of the cartilage and promotes its regeneration. Weight-bearing training should be increased gradually and should not cause pain.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy is concerned with adapting activities of daily living to the patient's individual needs and abilities. Aids such as walking sticks, splints or insoles are used to relieve and protect the joint. Tips are also given on how to avoid or change certain movements or postures in order to prevent incorrect strain.
Coordination and balance training
Coordination and balance training is designed to improve sensitivity and the interaction of nerves and muscles. This increases safety and confidence in your own movements. Coordination and balance training can be carried out using various equipment such as balls, cushions or boards.
How can you do something yourself?
Physiotherapy is only effective if it is carried out regularly and consistently. It is therefore important that patients become active themselves and continue the exercises at home or in everyday life. They should follow their physiotherapist's instructions and pay attention to their body's reactions.
In addition to physiotherapy, there are other measures that you can take yourself to treat or prevent osteoarthritis. These include
- A healthy diet
- Weight reduction
- Sports that are easy on the joints, such as swimming, cycling or hiking
- Heat or cold applications
- Painkillers after consultation with the doctor
- Relaxation techniques
Conclusion
Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that can lead to pain, stiffness and restricted movement. Physiotherapy is an effective method of alleviating the symptoms and improving the function of the joint. Physiotherapy includes various exercises and applications that are individually tailored to the patient. Physiotherapy should be carried out regularly and consistently in order to achieve long-term success. You can also do something yourself to treat or prevent osteoarthritis, for example through a healthy diet, sports that are easy on the joints or relaxation techniques.