Arthritis

Understand what arthritis is, common symptoms and how physiotherapy helps with pain, mobility, and day‑to‑day function.

What is arthritis and how does physiotherapy help?

Arthritis describes joint changes that can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced confidence in movement. Osteoarthritis is most common; inflammatory types such as rheumatoid arthritis involve the immune system and require medical input alongside physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy focuses on education, pacing, mobility and strengthening to improve function and reduce flares.

Typical recovery timeline

  • 2–6 weeks: symptom settling and confidence building
  • 6–12 weeks: strength and function gains
  • 12+ weeks: return to higher‑load tasks as tolerated

Understanding arthritis

Types

  • Osteoarthritis: age‑related joint change and loading factors
  • Inflammatory arthritis: e.g., rheumatoid, psoriatic—requires rheumatology input
  • Post‑traumatic: after previous joint injury

Risk factors

  • Age: more common after 45–50 years
  • Previous injury: meniscus/ligament or joint trauma
  • Load/weight: higher joint loads, repetitive tasks

UK impact and imaging

Arthritis affects work and daily activity across the UK. Imaging (X‑ray/MRI) supports diagnosis when symptoms do not follow an expected pattern; severity on imaging does not always match pain levels.

Common contributing factors

Age‑related change

Gradual cartilage and bone remodeling.

Previous injury

Increases risk of later joint symptoms.

Load spikes

Sudden increases in walking, stairs or manual tasks.

Biomechanics

Hip/ankle mobility and strength influence joint load.

Common symptoms

Primary symptoms

Functional limitations

  • Daily activities: stairs, longer walks, carrying
  • Work: manual tasks or long periods on feet
  • Recreation: impact or twisting activities

Related symptoms: Joint stiffness, Reduced range of motion, Swelling, Muscle weakness

How can physiotherapy help?

Care focuses on education, pacing, mobility and strength to support daily activity and reduce flares.

Core components

  • Education and flare‑up planning
  • Mobility work tailored to affected joints
  • Progressive strengthening and balance training
  • Supportive devices/footwear where appropriate

Effective treatments

Manual therapy

Hands‑on techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Exercise therapy

Progressive strengthening and movement practice.

Education

Load management, pacing and recurrence prevention.

Lifestyle

Walking, weight and sleep strategies.

What happens in a physiotherapy session?

Assessment covers pain, range, strength and function. Clinical tests identify irritability and safe load levels.

  • Subjective: symptoms, sleep, medication, flare patterns
  • Objective: joint range, strength, balance, gait
  • Education: pacing, pain science, flare‑up plan
  • Plan: mobility + strength with weekly targets, review and progress

Home exercises support progress across 6–12 weeks with objective progression (reps, time under tension, walking time).

Can you manage arthritis at home?

Yes—many people improve with gradual activity and a simple strengthening routine.

  • Short bouts of walking or cycling most days
  • 2–3 strength sessions weekly (legs, hips, trunk)
  • Spread heavier tasks across the week to limit flares

Weekly structure example

  • Daily: 10–20 mins walk or cycle; gentle joint range
  • 2–3 days/week: lower‑limb strength (sit‑to‑stands, step‑ups, calf raises)
  • Progression: increase time/reps by ~10% weekly if symptoms stable

When should you seek help?

Urgent assessment

  • Hot, red, severely swollen joint
  • Severe trauma with inability to weight‑bear
  • Systemic red flags (fever, unremitting night pain, unexplained weight loss)

Consult a physiotherapist if

  • Symptoms persist beyond 6–8 weeks
  • Difficulty with daily activities or work
  • Recurrent flares impacting function

Accessing care in the UK

Access physiotherapy via GP referral on the NHS, or directly through private clinics (often faster access). Insurance or employer health plans may help with costs.

FAQs

Do I need a scan?

Imaging is rarely needed initially. It helps when symptoms don’t follow an expected pattern or to rule out other causes.

Should I keep moving?

Yes—steady, tolerable activity generally supports recovery. Adjust intensity if flares last more than 24 hours.

How many sessions will I need?

Commonly 6–12 over several weeks, adjusted to your goals and progress.

NHS or private care?

NHS access is via GP referral; private care offers faster access and longer appointment times. Both follow evidence‑based pathways.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.