Treating Arthritis

There are several types of Arthritis, and they have different causes, pathology and effects. Knowing what type of Arthritis you have is important to help guide your management.

Osteoarthritis relates to the long term break down of joint cartilage, the well lubricated,  smooth surfaces of our joints that allow smooth and pain free range of movement. 

Often treatment such as Strain Counterstrain, Dry Needling, exercises, massage and advice can help reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and ease the restriction in your lifestyle but the joint will not recover cartilage with treatment.

There is some evidence for Glucosamine and fish oil, using supplements like these could help some people. Chat to the physio, naturopath, doctor or pharmacist about these options as part of your management plan.

Other types of Arthritis come about another way, in simplicity, your body's defence cells (autoimmune system) start to attack your healthy joints/joint lining/ and other structures of your own body. This group of Arthritis varieties are Systemic, and are usually diagnosed by clinical symptoms and blood tests. The blood test may show high levels of rheumatic factors.

These Autoimmune types of Arthritis include (but not limited to) Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Polymyalgia Rheumatica, Lupus, and Sjogren Syndrome. They are all a bit different. /the Arthritis Society has some great references

Seeing the physio is beneficial but only part of the process of managing Arthritic conditions in this category. Your doctor and specialist should be involved in the medical management of the condition.

For more information and advice go to Arthritis SA.