Osteoarthritis (OA) is a breakdown of cartilage in the joints, which leads to changes of the underlying bones. It is a chronic condition that the majority of us with experience at varying degrees of severity at some stage in our increasingly busy and active lives.
Typical signs of OA are:
- Pain occurring with activity and easing with rest. These pain symptoms normally occur in the morning or after a period of inactivity e.g. such as sustained and prolonged postures.
- Limitation of movement. This is a result of the changes of your bones articular spaces which changes the congruency of the joint surfaces. This process is progressive and becomes more severe as the joints degenerate.
Hydrotherapy is an effective form of treatment as it involves specific and individual exercise programs in warm water (32-34 degrees) The aims and benefits of hydrotherapy are:
- Minimal impact and jarring on the joints
- Assisted movements, decreased weight bearing and increased range of movement due to buoyancy
- Relaxation by the warm water increasing blood flow to your muscles which assists in reducing muscle tension and decreasing pain
- Aerobic exercise assisting with your cardiovascular fitness
- Exercises can be easily progressed or modified depending on your severity of symptoms
- Psychological benefits of group therapy is a good way to get out into the community to exercise with others who may have similar symptoms.
Speak to your local Core Physiotherapy and Pilates Studio to see if Hydrotherapy would be benificial to you.