OSTEOARTHRITIS is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people in the UK.
It’s a condition I frequently see in clinic, particularly in the knee and hip joints, where it can have a major impact on daily life. But, while osteoarthritis can be challenging, there are effective ways to manage it and maintain a good quality of life.
The degenerative joint disease sees protective cartilage that cushions your bones wear down over time.
This can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced mobility.
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It tends to develop gradually and becomes more common with age but it can also result from previous joint injuries or overuse.
Managing osteoarthritis doesn’t always mean surgery.
In many cases, symptoms can be controlled with non-surgical approaches, including:
Exercise and movement: Gentle, regular activity helps keep joints mobile and strengthens the muscles around them. Swimming, walking and cycling are ideal low-impact options.
Weight management: Extra weight puts additional stress on the joints, especially the knees. Losing even a small amount of weight can reduce pain and slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
Medication and injections: Pain relief options include anti-inflammatories or steroid injections which can help reduce inflammation and improve function.
Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises and manual therapy can improve joint stability and relieve stiffness.
When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, joint replacement surgery may be an option. With advances like SMART robotic-assisted surgery, outcomes are more precise, recovery is quicker and long-term results are often better.
If you’re living with joint pain or stiffness, don’t ignore it. Early diagnosis and the right management plan can make all the difference. Please get in touch on 01905 362003 if you have any questions or concerns.
Our columnist Nadim Aslam is a consultant orthopaedic SMART robotic knee and hip specialist surgeon at Worcester’s Spire South Bank Hospital.
