There are many different types of arthritis, with the the two most common types being osteoarthritis (wear and tear) and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis causes cartilage to break down, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder which targets the lining of the joints. Signs, symptoms and treatments will vary depending on the type of arthritis.
Most osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of a joint from overuse or an old injury. Joint instability can predispose or lead to arthritic wear.
The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis involve the joints. Depending on which arthritis you have, your symptoms may include pain, stiffness, swelling, redness and decreased range of motion in the joint.
There will be a full clinical examination where the mobility of the affected joints will be assessed. Further diagnostic imaging may be required to determine the extent of the arthritis. An X Ray can show if the joint surface has suffered from wear and tear.
You can see any of our practitioners for most conditions but check out their profiles for more information and specific interests. Strengthening exercises can be very helpful to improve mobility and it would be useful to start off by seeing a physio to see if this would be appropriate for your condition.
Check out our services pages to find out more about these therapies. Practitioners are trained to treat most conditions but do this in slightly different ways. They work together to find the best treatment most suited to your condition.
Treatment for arthritis will focus on relieving symptoms and improving joint function. Physical therapy and medications are appropriate treatments for arthritis. If pain is severe there are pain relieving injections offered by our specialist doctors. Group exercise classes can be very useful for motivation and encouragement for patients with arthritis.
After a course of Prolotherapy my back pain has gone and I live a normal life. I can’t thank Dr Petrides enough for giving me back my quality of life
Following treatment at Blackberry Clinic, Milton Keynes my back pain improved and I could play for my country again
Just wanted to say please pass my thanks to my osteopath, I came yesterday with terrible back and shoulder pain and today I am pain free, am well delighted as had a day planned with friends was worried I wouldn’t enjoy, please pass my thanks onto her.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that Lorena has changed my life. Four months ago, having been diagnosed as having “severe, acute and chronic” disc degeneration I genuinely thought I was facing a life of disability (I am 49).
Lorena has re-taught me how to move my body and how to think about what muscles I engage to a point that I am now running, swimming and doing pilates again and have almost full flexibility in my spine. It almost feels like Lorena can see through your skin to your muscles, so profound is her understanding of how the body moves.
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