How Physiotherapy Can Help with Knee Arthritis

Managing Knee Arthritis with Physiotherapy

Knee arthritis can disrupt your daily routine, making staying active or completing simple tasks challenging. Whether it’s walking, climbing stairs, or standing after prolonged sitting, the pain and stiffness from arthritis often limit mobility. 

Fortunately, physiotherapy services offer a practical, noninvasive approach to improving quality of life by directly addressing the affected knee. Unlike methods that only mask joint pain, physiotherapy aims to optimise function, reduce symptoms, and prevent future complications through strengthening exercises and targeted treatments.

This guide explores the different aspects of knee arthritis, how physiotherapy works, and offers advice on lifestyle strategies for staying mobile and avoiding unnecessary surgical options like knee replacement.

Does Physiotherapy Help Knee Arthritis: Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Types

Knee arthritis can manifest in several forms, each impacting joint function and mobility differently. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most commonly affected type, but other forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis, also cause joint pain and muscle weakness.

Types of Knee Arthritis

• Knee Osteoarthritis (OA): This type, also called “wear-and-tear” arthritis, develops when articular cartilage that cushions the knee joint deteriorates. It leads to joint stiffness, swelling, and chronic pain. Athletes, manual labourers, and older adults are more prone to knee OA.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune disease causes the immune system to attack joints, leading to inflammation, joint fluid buildup, and tissue damage.

Common Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

• Persistent pain that worsens with physical activity or while climbing stairs.
• Joint stiffness that limits flexibility, especially after prolonged sitting.
• Swelling and discomfort caused by an accumulation of joint fluid.
• A grating sensation or clicking sounds when bending or straightening the knee joint.
• Muscle weakness and instability, making it feel like the knee might “give out.”

Causes of Knee Arthritis

• Ageing and Progressive Loss: The natural progressive loss of articular cartilage over time increases susceptibility to OA.
• Previous Injuries or Surgeries: Knee injuries and procedures like ligament repairs may accelerate the onset of arthritis.
• Obesity and Weight Issues: Extra weight places stress on joints, worsening symptoms. Weight management and weight loss are essential parts of managing arthritis.
• Health Conditions: People with other health conditions like metabolic disorders may also experience knee problems.

Why Physiotherapy is Effective for Knee Arthritis

Does physiotherapy help knee arthritis? Yes! Knee arthritis physiotherapy exercises and services do more than provide temporary relief – they address the root cause of symptoms, aiming to reduce pain and improve overall physical function.

Key Benefits of Physiotherapy for Knee Arthritis

• Pain Relief: Manual therapy and dry needling help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Improved Mobility: By addressing joint stiffness, physiotherapy helps restore the range of motion necessary for everyday activities.
• Muscle Strengthening: Targeted strengthening exercises reduce pressure on the affected knee and enhance joint stability.
• Self-Management and Independence: Staying active with the right interventions ensures people maintain physical function without becoming overly dependent on others.

Proven Physiotherapy Techniques for Knee OA Management

Our physiotherapists employ conservative methods to restore physical function and prevent deterioration in knee OA patients. Here are some of the most effective approaches:

• Manual Therapy: Mobilises the knee joint to reduce stiffness and improve flexibility.
• Dry Needling : Dry needling targets trigger points to relieve muscle stress. Dry needling also helps to reduce pain by targeting the site of bone inflammation and stimulating the nervous system response to ramp down the pain threshold in patients with arthritis.
• Customised Exercise Programs: Strengthen muscles with exercises like step-ups and mini lunges to avoid joint strain.
• Taping and Braces: Provide support for the knee and improve stability, reducing the risk of further injury.

Tailoring Physiotherapy for Different Groups

Each individual’s experience with knee arthritis is unique, so our knee arthritis physiotherapy treatment​ programs are customised accordingly. Here’s how various groups benefit from physiotherapy services:

• Seniors: Programs focus on balance training, walking aids, and low-impact exercises like our posture plus+ class or aqua aerobics to avoid falls and maintain mobility.
• Office Workers: Physiotherapy may address joint pain caused by poor ergonomics or prolonged sitting with targeted stretches.
• Post-Injury Patients: People recovering from surgery or injuries can benefit from OA management techniques, which reduce re-injury risks and improve recovery times. 

The Role of Weight Management and Lifestyle Changes

Effective OA management requires attention to lifestyle factors such as weight management. Weight loss reduces the load on the knee joint and minimises symptoms. 

Practical Tips for Self-Management and Home Exercises

In addition to physiotherapy, self-management is critical in managing knee OA. Here are some tips to maintain mobility and reduce symptoms:

• Stretching for Flexibility: Incorporate hamstring and calf stretches to reduce stiffness.
• Strengthening Exercises: Focus on bodyweight exercises and step-ups to build muscle strength without straining the knee joint.
• Heat/Ice Therapy: Use ice for swelling and heat packs to alleviate joint stiffness.
• Ergonomic Adjustments: Wear supportive shoes and cushioned chairs to reduce joint stress.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Knee Health Today

If you are experiencing painful symptoms, get in touch with City Physiotherapy today. We’ll assess your condition and design a program to reduce pain, improve mobility, and help you avoid invasive procedures.

Take the first step today – book a session at City Physiotherapy in Adelaide CBD and start your journey to better health. Whether you need conservative management or post-surgery care, physio services will help you stay active and maintain overall health. Your knees will thank you!

Frequently Asked Question

How does physiotherapy help relieve knee arthritis pain?

Physiotherapy relieves pain through manual therapy and dry needling, reducing inflammation and improving joint function.

How long does it take to see improvement with physiotherapy?

Noticeable improvements often occur within 6 to 8 weeks of consistent physiotherapy, though individual timelines vary based on arthritis severity and exercise adherence.

Can physiotherapy prevent the need for knee surgery?

Yes, physiotherapy improves joint mobility and strengthens muscles, often delaying or preventing the need for invasive treatments like knee replacements.

What types of exercises are safe for knee arthritis?

Low-impact exercises are ideal, helping you build strength without placing excessive strain on the knee joint.

Is physiotherapy suitable for seniors with knee arthritis?

Yes, seniors benefit from customised programs that include balance training and walking aids to reduce fall risks and maintain mobility.

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