Osteoarthritis
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Living With Osteoarthritis
Daily life with osteoarthritis may be difficult. However, there are steps you can take to manage or improve your symptoms so that you can keep doing many of the things you love. The Ace Allied Health team is here to support you along the way.
Incorporating a physical therapy approach into your care has the potential to make a considerable difference to your health and well-being. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been dealing with osteoarthritis for years, we can assess your symptoms and develop an appropriate plan for you.
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What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease and the most common type of arthritis. In a person with osteoarthritis, the cartilage that usually provides a cushioning, smooth surface within a joint begins to break down. This means there is potential for the bones in the joint to rub and for inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility to occur. For some people, there may be minimal symptoms, for others, this can be a debilitating condition.
The prevalence of osteoarthritis increases with age. Other risk factors include being overweight, muscle weakness, a history of injury to the joint, an inactive lifestyle, genetics, and being male under the age of 50 or female over the age of 50. Certain medical conditions may also impact the occurrence of osteoarthritis, such as gout, diabetes, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hemochromatosis, and Perthes’ disease.
Osteoarthritis Symptoms
- Pain that increases with movement, cold temperatures, tiredness, and trauma to the area.
- Reduced range of motion that gets progressively worse.
- Stiffness in the morning.
- Scraping or cracking sounds upon movement.
- Swelling at the joint.
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Physical Therapy Osteoarthritis Treatments
The idea of being active when dealing with the symptoms of osteoarthritis may not be tempting. However, keeping your joints moving regularly has the potential to help significantly. As a non-pharmacological, non-surgical option, either alone or in conjunction with these treatments, physiotherapy can work towards improving pain and movement and minimising mobility reduction.
While medication and surgery may be beneficial in many cases, physical therapy offers maintenance and preventative methods that focus on a holistic, non-invasive approach. Your therapist will develop a tailored plan for you depending on your requirements and goals, which may include techniques such as:
- Strengthening and flexibility exercises.
- Aerobic and agility exercises.
- Joint mobilisation.
- Deep tissue massage.
- Assistive devices.
- Dry needling.
- Custom orthotics.
- Clinical Pilates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Ace Allied Health team is dedicated to helping each of our patients reach their goals. We deliver comprehensive care with the goal of supporting and helping you to live your best life.
How often do I need physiotherapy for osteoarthritis?
The regularity and duration of your physiotherapy treatment depends on your symptoms, your overall health, and your dedication to carrying out prescribed exercises and life adjustments. Your physio will develop a care plan and discuss with you the potential length of time your treatment may take before you see benefits.
Could clinical Pilates help my osteoarthritis?
It can feel tricky to find the right type of exercise when you have osteoarthritis. However, clinical Pilates may be what you are looking for. Our experienced and qualified health practitioners can develop a personalised program for you and guide you with each movement in small classes.
This form of exercise can be gentle and controlled, and with the correct direction and supervision, may be a beneficial way to look after your joints, strengthen your body, and improve your overall health and well-being.
Can Ace Allied Health’s dieticians improve my osteoarthritis?
Food has the potential to affect crucial factors related to osteoarthritis, such as inflammation and weight management. Our dieticians can undertake a thorough assessment with you and determine whether adjustments may benefit you. If so, we can develop a tailored plan to cater to your needs and preferences.
Areas We Service
We are proud to be able to help residents of regional Victoria find improved comfort, mobility, and overall health and well-being. You can visit one of our four clinics to receive high-quality, comprehensive care from our friendly and experienced team.
Ace Allied Health locations include:
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Why Choose Ace Allied Health?
The Ace Allied Health team is dedicated to helping each of our patients reach their goals. We deliver comprehensive care with the goal of supporting and helping you to live your best life.
Qualified team
Our therapists are highly trained and experienced in treating osteoarthritis and similar conditions. We can identify symptoms and associated factors and deliver suitable treatment.
Tailored care
Osteoarthritis can present differently for each person depending on the affected joints, their lifestyle, and other contributing factors. We develop a personalised care plan that focuses on your specific needs.
Modern resources
We utilise high-quality equipment to deliver the care you require.
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Find Relief at Ace Allied Health
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Empowering Health and Performance
At Ace Allied Health, your well-being is our priority. No matter your age, stage of life, or lifestyle, we want to help you feel your best! Whether that’s with physiotherapy, exercise physiology, dietetics, or something else, we’re the team in your corner cheering you on to help you reach your goals. Take the first step towards a healthier and happier life by booking an appointment today.