Osteoarthritis: Symptoms, Causes and Physiotherapy Treatment
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis in Australia, affecting approximately 1 in 8 Australians. While it is often associated with ageing, osteoarthritis is not simply a consequence of getting older. Many factors contribute to its development, and there is a great deal you can do to manage symptoms, maintain mobility and continue living an active lifestyle.
At Apex Physiotherapy in Bicton, we regularly help people manage osteoarthritis through education, exercise, strength training and personalised rehabilitation programs.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the entire joint, not just the cartilage. It involves changes to:
- Joint cartilage
- Underlying bone
- Joint lining (synovium)
- Ligaments
- Tendons
- Joint fluid
These changes can result in:
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Reduced mobility
- Muscle weakness
- Reduced confidence with movement
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint but is most commonly seen in:
- Knees
- Hips
- Lower back
- Neck
- Fingers
- Big toe
What Happens Inside an Arthritic Joint?
Healthy joints contain smooth cartilage that allows bones to move freely while helping distribute load through the joint.
Cartilage is constantly being broken down and rebuilt throughout life. Osteoarthritis develops when cartilage breakdown occurs faster than the body’s ability to repair it.
Stage 1: Cartilage Injury
Factors such as age, genetics, previous injury, body weight and repetitive loading can begin damaging cartilage.
Stage 2: Early Osteoarthritis
The joint responds by releasing inflammatory chemicals. The cartilage, surrounding joint lining and underlying bone begin to change.
Stage 3: Advanced Osteoarthritis
Ongoing inflammation and joint stress can lead to cartilage loss, changes in bone structure and increased symptoms.
Importantly, the severity of arthritis seen on an X-ray does not always match the amount of pain a person experiences. Many people have significant arthritis changes on imaging but experience minimal symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Symptoms can vary significantly between individuals.
Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain during or after activity
- Morning stiffness
- Stiffness after prolonged sitting
- Swelling around the joint
- Reduced range of movement
- Muscle weakness
- Joint instability
- Difficulty with stairs, walking or exercise
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
There is usually no single cause. Instead, osteoarthritis develops from a combination of factors.
Body Weight
Excess body weight significantly increases the load placed on joints.
For every kilogram of body weight gained, the knee may experience an additional 2–3 kilograms of force with each step.
Higher levels of body fat can also contribute to inflammation throughout the body, which may further affect joint health.
Previous Joint Injury
Joint injuries are one of the strongest risk factors for osteoarthritis.
Research shows that injuries such as:
- ACL ruptures
- Meniscus tears
- Cartilage injuries
- Joint fractures
can substantially increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life.
This is why appropriate rehabilitation following injury is so important.
Muscle Weakness
Muscles help absorb force and protect joints.
When muscles become weak, more load is transferred directly through cartilage and bone.
Regular strength training improves joint support and may reduce symptoms associated with osteoarthritis.
Occupational and Sporting Demands
Jobs involving repetitive:
- Kneeling
- Squatting
- Lifting
- Twisting
- Gripping
may increase joint stress over time.
Similarly, high-impact sports may increase risk if an athlete is not adequately conditioned for the demands of their sport.
Age and Genetics
Some risk factors cannot be modified.
Ageing naturally affects muscle strength, balance and movement control, while genetics may influence susceptibility to osteoarthritis.
Although we cannot change these factors, we can improve strength, mobility and physical function regardless of age.
Can Physiotherapy Help Osteoarthritis?
Absolutely.
While there is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for reducing pain and improving function.
Research consistently shows that exercise therapy can:
- Reduce pain
- Improve mobility
- Improve strength
- Improve balance
- Improve quality of life
- Reduce reliance on pain medication
- Delay or prevent joint replacement surgery
At Apex Physiotherapy, treatment plans are tailored to each individual’s symptoms, goals and lifestyle.
Best Exercises for Osteoarthritis
Exercise is one of the most powerful tools available for managing osteoarthritis.
A physiotherapy program may include:
Strength Training
Building strength around affected joints helps absorb force and reduce stress on cartilage.
Common focus areas include:
- Quadriceps strengthening
- Glute strengthening
- Core stability
- Balance training
Cardiovascular Exercise
Activities such as:
- Walking
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Hydrotherapy
can improve fitness while supporting weight management and overall health.
Mobility Exercises
Gentle movement exercises can reduce stiffness and improve joint function.
Weight Management and Osteoarthritis
For people carrying excess weight, weight loss can significantly improve symptoms.
Benefits may include:
- Reduced joint pain
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved mobility
- Slower progression of joint degeneration
Even modest weight loss can provide meaningful improvements in knee and hip arthritis symptoms.
When Is Surgery Required?
Many people successfully manage osteoarthritis without surgery.
However, if symptoms become severe and conservative treatment is no longer effective, options such as joint replacement surgery may be considered.
Your physiotherapist can work closely with your GP and specialist to determine the most appropriate management pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does osteoarthritis mean my joints are wearing out?
No. Osteoarthritis is a complex condition involving multiple joint structures. Many people continue to exercise, work and participate in sport despite having arthritis.
Should I stop exercising if I have arthritis?
No. Exercise is one of the most effective treatments for osteoarthritis and is strongly recommended.
Can physiotherapy reverse osteoarthritis?
No treatment can currently reverse osteoarthritis. Physiotherapy aims to reduce symptoms, improve function and help you remain active.
Is walking good for osteoarthritis?
For most people, yes. Walking can help maintain mobility, improve fitness and support joint health when progressed appropriately.
Do I need an X-ray to diagnose osteoarthritis?
Not always. Many cases can be identified through a thorough assessment by a physiotherapist. Imaging may be useful in certain situations but is not always required.
Osteoarthritis Physiotherapy in Bicton
If you are experiencing knee pain, hip pain, stiffness or have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, our team can help.
At Apex Physiotherapy Bicton, we provide evidence-based assessment, education and exercise programs designed to reduce pain, improve mobility and keep you doing the activities that matter most.
Book an appointment with our physiotherapy team to discuss your symptoms and develop a personalised management plan.
