KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS:
TIPS TO HELP YOU MANAGE YOUR OA
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint disorder and is primarily seen in people over the age of 65. It can cause pain, swelling and reduced mobility of the affected joint. Here are a few pointers to help you manage your OA.
1) Take Action
Do not wait until you have trouble climbing up and down stairs or severe knee pain to take action! Many people will be referred for imaging (X-rays or MRIs) from their family doctor to confirm their diagnosis and then will be referred to other medical specialists (orthopedists or rheumatologists). This process involves a lot of time spent waiting only to determine you may not be a candidate for surgery!
Physiotherapy can help you better understand your condition and help you manage the pain. You will also learn exercises to maintain your mobility, prevent muscle loss, and learn how to adapt certain movements so you can continue to do the activities you enjoy.
2) Don't stop moving!
I have heard this sentence too many times: I will begin to exercise once my pain stops. Although this is understandable, exercise is a crucial part of treating OA. You need to maintain muscle around your joint to help decrease swelling and improve your function. Low impact activities including walking, biking and water aerobics are good choices.
Physiotherapy can help design a safe exercise program to improve your strength and mobility no matter what stage of osteoarthritis you have!
3) Listen to your body
Doing too much too quickly can also hinder your healing. You have to find a balance where you are being challenged enough, but the demands are not too great. So, how do you know if you have overdone it?
If, while exercising, your pain increases significantly and persists even after you have stopped exercising
If your pain wakes you up at night
If the next day you feel more stiffness
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