Osteoarthritis Treatment Newcastle

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common joint conditions in the UK, yet some people are told there is little that can be done beyond pain relief or waiting for a joint replacement. In fact, physiotherapy is one of the most effective evidence-based treatments for osteoarthritis at any stage, helping to reduce pain, improve function and maintain quality of life.

Our expert physiotherapists at Gosforth Physio & Wellness specialise in the assessment and treatment of osteoarthritis affecting joints throughout the body. Through hands-on therapy, targeted exercise and education, we help you move better, hurt less and stay active for longer.

Osteoarthritis Physiotherapy Newcastle

Our physiotherapists use a combination of manual therapy, joint mobilisation, exercise rehabilitation and education to reduce pain, improve joint mobility and build the strength needed to support affected joints long term.

We carry out a thorough assessment to understand how your osteoarthritis is affecting you specifically, which joints are involved, how your strength and movement are compromised, and what your goals are. Treatment begins in the first session, and we focus on giving you strategies that produce lasting improvement rather than short-term relief.

Which Joints Does Osteoarthritis Affect?

Osteoarthritis can develop in any joint but is most commonly seen in the neck, shoulder, back, hip, knee and ankle. We treat osteoarthritis across all of these areas and tailor your programme to the specific demands placed on each joint.

Joint changes seen on a scan can look alarming but frequently do not correlate with the level of pain or disability a person experiences. Many people with significant changes on imaging respond extremely well to physiotherapy and go on to remain active without surgical intervention.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones within a joint gradually breaks down over time. This can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced range of movement. It is most common in adults over 45 but can develop earlier, particularly following injury or periods of joint overload.

Osteoarthritis is not simply a result of wear and tear that cannot be reversed. While cartilage changes are irreversible, pain and function are heavily influenced by muscle strength, joint loading, movement patterns and lifestyle factors, all of which physiotherapy directly addresses.

The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

• Joint pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest, particularly in the early stages
• Morning stiffness that typically settles within 30 minutes
• Swelling or tenderness around the joint
• A grating, clicking or crunching sensation on movement
• Reduced range of movement and difficulty with everyday tasks

Living with joint pain or stiffness?

You're in the right place. Our physiotherapists assess, diagnose and treat osteoarthritis every day. Contact us today to begin your treatment, or book your appointment online.