More than 1.5 million consultations are had by Australians annually in relation to their hip and or knee pain. A large proportion of these presentations are diagnosed as hip and knee osteoarthritis.
Where to from here? A joint replacement? An injection? Exercise?
Good Living with Osteoarthritis: Denmark (GLA:D) is an evidence-based program adopted in several countries worldwide. GLA:D is fast becoming the first-line treatment for managing this condition.
Understanding Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common condition depicted by the degeneration of cartilage within joints, contributing to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. While it can affect any joint, it most commonly impacts at the hips, knees, and hands. The traditional view of osteoarthritis as merely a “wear and tear disease” suggests that the joint damage is inevitable and irreversible. This perspective can be discouraging, implying that physical activity should be minimised to avoid further damage. However, modern understanding of the condition reveals that this is a misconception.
The Importance of Physical Activity
Contrary to the “wear and tear” myth, physical activity is crucial for managing osteoarthritis. Cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints, requires moderate load-bearing activity to maintain its health. Regular movement stimulates the production of synovial fluid, which nourishes and lubricates the cartilage. This helps to preserve joint function and can even alleviate pain. Therefore, remaining active is not only safe but beneficial for those with osteoarthritis.
The Complex Causes of Pain
The pain and disability associated with osteoarthritis are influenced by a range of factors beyond just the condition of the cartilage. These can include:
- Muscle weakness: Surrounding muscles can become weaker due to inactivity, leading to more effort/strain on the joints.
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Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can exacerbate pain and swelling in the affected joints.
- Biomechanics: How a person moves and their static and dynamic postures can impact joint stress and pain levels.
- Psychosocial factors: Mental health, including each individuals understanding and perspectives on prognosis, can influence the perception of pain.
Physiotherapy and the GLA:D Program
Physiotherapy plays a critical role in managing osteoarthritis. One of the most effective approaches is the Good Living with Osteoarthritis: Denmark (GLA:D) program. This evidence-based initiative has been adopted in several countries and is becoming a preferred first-line treatment for osteoarthritis.
Here's what the GLA:D program offers:
- Education: Patients learn about osteoarthritis, its causes, and how lifestyle changes can manage symptoms.
- Exercise: Tailored exercise programs aim to improve strength, flexibility, and overall joint function. These exercises are designed to be safe and effective, promoting cartilage health and reducing pain.
- Support: Participants receive ongoing support and motivation, which can help in maintaining a consistent exercise routine and making positive lifestyle changes.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Osteoarthritis
- Pain Relief: Through graded exercise exposure and manual therapy, physiotherapy can help reduce pain levels.
- Improved Mobility: Regular physiotherapy can increase joint range of motion and overall mobility.
- Enhanced Strength: Strengthening the muscles around the joints helps to offload stress from the joints themselves.
- Better Quality of Life: By managing symptoms and improving physical function, physiotherapy can enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with osteoarthritis.
Conclusion
For those living with osteoarthritis, understanding the condition and embracing an active approach to management can make a significant difference. Programs like GLA:D offer a structured, evidence-based method to address the symptoms and challenges of osteoarthritis, promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle. Instead of viewing osteoarthritis as a limiting condition, consider it a call to take proactive steps toward better joint health and overall well-being.