Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (spondylosis) is the most common type of arthritis treated within my clinic. Osteoarthritis (OA) is associated with poor biomechanics, obesity, previous joint injuries and rheumatic diseases including, rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis.

Osteoarthritis affects the cartilage within each joint leading to a loss of joint space, new bone formation and may cause nerve irritation. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body but is most commonly associated with joints in the hand, spine, hip, knee and feet. Osteoarthritis causes pain, stiffness and alters the function of muscles, tendons and ligaments that surround the affected joint.

Pain within any joint, changes not only the way we move the affected joint but also how we move other joints around that area. For example, the pain and stiffness from Osteoarthritis in our right knee can affect not only the way we move our right knee but also change biomechanics in our right foot, hip, pelvis and can alter the way we move our left leg. When treating osteoarthritis, I utilise techniques to reduce muscle tone and improve circulation around the affected joint. I also assess other areas in the body, because improving biomechanics in another area can offload stress through the affected joint.