Osteoarthritis is a condition in which there is a loss of articular cartilage in the joint. Cartilage is very hard and smooth and covers the ends of the bones of all the joints in our body. It does not have a nerve supply and therefore does not ‘feel’ pain. It also does not have a blood supply and therefore does not have a way in which to heal itself. Once cartilage has been damaged it will not regenerate. When cartilage diminishes, bone will grow to try to protect that area and will result in bony spurs or osteophytes. This can be seen on an x-ray. With all these changes the joint will become rough, the joint mobility will be decreased, and the joint will feel stiff and painful.

When a joint becomes painful, you will start to favor it, i.e. use it less, and put less pressure on it. This results in weaker muscles and a stiffer joint, and in return will increase your pain. Now a cycle has developed which will be difficult to break.

HOW CAN YOU BREAK THIS CYCLE?

• First see your general practitioner or rheumatologist to discuss pain medication.
• Use ice for a swollen joint and heat for a stiff joint. Heat feels good but ice is better to control pain.
• Protect your joint. This includes resting on more painful days, or using a cane to reduce the stress on your back, hip or knee. A brace can also be used to reduce the stress on joints such as the wrist, knee or ankle.
• EXERCISE. It is extremely important to keep your joints moving. This is the only way a joint receives nutrition and lubrication. Stretching the muscle will also assist to maintain good joint mobility. Strengthening the muscles will unload some of the joint stresses, will improve your endurance and decrease your pain.
  
  If you have been diagnosed with arthritis, book an appointment to learn how to manage your pain and which exercises are appropriate for you.