Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint condition where the cartilage within your joints gradually breaks down. It often affects weight-bearing joints like your knees, hips, and spine, as well as frequently used joints in your hands. OA is typically related to age, previous injuries, repetitive stress, or biomechanical factors that cause uneven wear patterns on joint surfaces.

Osteopathy can help manage osteoarthritis by addressing the biomechanical factors that contribute to uneven joint loading. We use gentle joint mobilisation techniques to maintain range of motion and reduce stiffness, alongside soft tissue massage to improve circulation and reduce muscle tension around affected joints. Additionally, we'll prescribe specific exercises designed to strengthen supporting muscles and improve joint stability, all while working to reduce your pain.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) 

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial lining of your joints. This leads to widespread inflammation, pain, stiffness, and potential joint deformity. RA typically affects multiple joints symmetrically and is often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fatigue and morning stiffness lasting over an hour.

Supporting RA with Osteopathic Care

For Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteopathic treatment focuses on gentle techniques during flare-ups to avoid aggravating inflammation, along with lymphatic drainage methods to help reduce swelling. We'll also work on carefully graded movement to maintain joint mobility and address any secondary musculoskeletal problems that develop from altered movement patterns or joint deformities.

Holistic Management & Lifestyle Advice

Both Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis benefit from a whole-body Osteopathic assessment to identify compensatory patterns, postural adaptations, and related areas of dysfunction. We also provide lifestyle advice regarding activity modification, ergonomics, stress management, and exercise programmes tailored to your specific needs and disease stage. Our goal is to help maintain function, reduce pain, and slow progression while improving your overall quality of life in Codicote.