Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is part of the aging process. It is common to have degenerative changes and arthritic changes on X-ray without pain. For some people osteoarthritis arthritis (OA) causes significant pain and loss of function. OA is an inflammatory condition and as such we see an increase in various inflammatory markers on testing. Chronic exposure to these inflammatory markers has been shown induce cartilage catabolism and increase pain. Cartilage is the important protective coating on the end of our bones that gives bones a round smooth appearance.

Physical activity has been consistently shown to improve function, pain and quality of life for people with O.A. as well as reducing these inflammatory markers. A recent 18 month study compared 3 groups. Exercise only, exercise and weight loss and weight loss alone. All groups improved but the greatest improvement came in the combined exercise and weight loss group.

At Burns Bay Physiotherapy we can help reduce your pain to improve your ability to function freely. We can also assist with appropriate exercises to get you moving and staying healthy.

Published in “The Village Observer”, November, 2016. Written by Burns Bay Physiotherapy