Understanding osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis involves change to the cartilage and surrounding structures of a joint. It is extremely common with age, and importantly the amount of change visible on a scan correlates poorly with how much pain someone experiences.
That gap between imaging and symptoms is good news, because it means there is a great deal that can be influenced even when the structural change cannot be reversed.
Signs you might notice
- Joint stiffness in the morning that eases within half an hour
- Pain that increases with activity and settles with rest
- Reduced range of movement in the joint
- Occasional swelling after heavier use
- Difficulty with stairs, walking distance or kneeling
Common contributing factors
- Age related change in joint structures
- Previous injury to the joint
- Load distribution that concentrates stress in one area
- Reduced muscle strength around the joint
- Genetic and metabolic factors
How we assess and treat it
We assess the joint and, crucially, the strength and loading around it. Where the affected joint is in the lower limb, pressure mapping and the 4D scan show how load travels through it during real movement.
The plan focuses on building the strength and capacity that protects the joint, and on reducing unnecessary load through it.
- Progressive strengthening around the affected joint
- Hands-on treatment to maintain movement
- Gait and loading adjustments
- Activity pacing and practical daily advice
- Support and referral if joint replacement is being considered
Common questions
Will exercise wear my joint out faster?
No. Appropriate exercise is one of the most strongly supported treatments for osteoarthritis. Inactivity weakens the muscles that protect the joint and usually makes symptoms worse.
Does the scan show how bad my arthritis is?
Our 4D scan measures movement and loading rather than cartilage. That is often the more useful information, since it shows what we can actually change.
Should I be considering surgery?
That depends on pain, function and how you respond to conservative treatment. Many people delay or avoid it, and we will be straight with you if we think a surgical opinion is due.