Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a broad term that refers to over 100 different conditions that cause inflammation, pain, stiffness, and swelling of the joints. While more common in older adults, arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children. It is a leading cause of disability worldwide, impacting mobility and quality of life.

Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including those in the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Early diagnosis and management through treatments, including exercise, can improve comfort and prevent worsening symptoms.

Examples of arthritis 

Osteoarthritis

• The most common form of arthritis, characterised by the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It affects the entire joint, including the capsule, ligaments, muscles, and underlying bone.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

• An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the synovial lining of joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and potential long-term joint damage. Commonly affects the wrists, knees, and fingers.

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

• An inflammatory arthritis linked with the skin condition psoriasis. It may affect joints such as the fingers, toes, and spine and is often associated with skin rashes.

Gout

• Caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in joints, typically in the big toe. It leads to sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling in the affected area.

Juvenile Arthritis (JA)

• Arthritis affecting children, characterised by joint inflammation and pain. It can cause developmental delays and growth issues.

Common Symptoms 

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of arthritis but often include:

• Joint pain: Aching, stiffness, or throbbing in affected joints.
• Swelling: Visible puffiness or warmth due to joint inflammation.
• Stiffness: Reduced flexibility, especially after rest.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness, often seen in inflammatory arthritis like RA.
• Decreased range of motion: Difficulty fully bending or straightening joints.

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How Exercise Can Help Manage Symptoms?

Exercise is highly effective for managing arthritis symptoms and improving joint health. While it may seem counterintuitive to move when in pain, regular physical activity can:

• Reduce Pain: Exercise releases endorphins, acting as natural pain relievers and reducing joint inflammation.
• Increase Strength and Flexibility: Strengthened muscles support and protect joints, while flexibility exercises improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
• Improve Functionality: Regular movement maintains joint function for everyday tasks like walking or climbing stairs.
• Boost Energy Levels: Low-impact exercise combats fatigue, a common arthritis symptom.
• Manage Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.

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How can an Exercise Physiologist help?

Here at Coast Sport, our Exercise Physiologists designs tailored exercise programs to suit your medical history, symptoms, and fitness level. They focus on:

• Improving Neuromuscular Control: Ensuring proper joint alignment during movement to reduce pain and enhance mobility.
• Functional Movements: Educating you on daily activity adaptations.
• Safe Progression: Differentiating between muscle soreness and arthritis pain, adjusting your program to avoid exacerbating symptoms while promoting long-term improvement.

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GLA:D Program 

At Coast Sport we offer a group class targeted at those with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis.

GLA:D Australia is a program combining exercise and education, ideal for those wanting to manage symptoms and improve function.

Click the link for more information: https://gladaustralia.com.au/

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Frequently asked questions

Will exercise make my arthritis pain worse?

Well-designed exercise should not worsen your pain. It can help reduce inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort over time. Start slowly, avoid overexertion, and consult your Exercise Physiologist if pain persists.

Can exercise prevent joint damage from arthritis?

Exercise cannot reverse joint damage but can prevent further deterioration by strengthening surrounding muscles, improving flexibility, and reducing inflammation. This helps protect joints and enhance overall function.

Book in today with our Accredited Exercise Physiologists or Physiotherapists to help with your arthritis pain!