When people hear the words osteoarthritis, they often think of ageing joints that have simply “worn out”. While this is a common belief, we now know it isn’t the full story.
Osteoarthritis is a normal part of ageing for many people, but it doesn’t always cause pain or stop you living an active life. Understanding what it is and how to manage it can make a big difference.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the whole joint, including the cartilage, bone and surrounding tissues.
Rather than simply wearing away, your body is constantly trying to repair and strengthen the joint. This is why some experts now describe it as “wear and repair” instead of “wear and tear”.
These repair changes can make the joint appear larger or develop small bony bumps. Although these changes are common, they don’t always cause pain.
Who gets osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis becomes more common as we get older, but it can affect adults of any age. Your risk may be higher if you:
- Have had a previous joint injury or surgery.
- Carry excess body weight.
- Have conditions such as diabetes.
- Have a family history of osteoarthritis.
- Are physically inactive.
The good news is that regular, sensible exercise does not usually damage your joints. In fact, research suggests that staying active may actually help protect them.
Why does it hurt?
One of the biggest surprises is that pain doesn’t always match an X-ray.
Some people have severe arthritis on a scan with very little pain, while others have mild changes but significant symptoms.
Pain can be influenced by many things, including:
- Inflammation within the joint.
- Muscle weakness.
- Stress and poor sleep.
- Overall health and fitness.
- How sensitive the nervous system has become over time.
This is why treatment should focus on the whole person, not just the X-ray. What can you do to help?
Although osteoarthritis cannot be completely reversed, there is a lot you can do to improve your symptoms and stay active.
Helpful strategies include:
- Keeping active with regular exercise.
- Strengthening the muscles around the affected joint.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Eating a balanced diet.
- Managing stress and getting good quality sleep.
- Avoiding long periods of inactivity.
Finding an activity you enjoy is important. Whether that’s walking, swimming, cycling or gardening, you’re much more likely to keep doing it if you enjoy it.
What treatments are available?
Treatment depends on your symptoms and how much they affect your daily life. Options may include:
- Personalised exercise programmes.
- Physiotherapy or podiatry.
- Foot orthotics or supportive braces where appropriate.
- Pain-relieving gels or medication.
- Corticosteroid injections for some joints.
- Surgery, usually only when other treatments have not provided enough relief.
The best treatment plan is one that is tailored to your needs and agreed together with your healthcare professional.
The bottom line
Osteoarthritis is not simply a joint wearing out. It is a complex condition influenced by your activity levels, overall health, previous injuries, weight, lifestyle and even stress.
The encouraging news is that staying active is one of the best things you can do. Movement helps keep joints healthy, muscles strong and often reduces pain over time.
If joint pain is affecting your daily life, don’t assume it’s something you just have to put up with. Early assessment and the right advice can help you stay active and keep doing the things you enjoy.
Book an appointment with one of our expert team today or read more about Osteoarthritis here
