Osteoarthritis

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis causes changes to the cartilage in a joint. Other parts of the joint may also be affected. You may experience pain and stiffness, for example in your knee, hip or hand. Symptoms vary from person to person and can fluctuate.

Osteoarthritis is not simply wear and tear caused by movement. Appropriate physical activity and exercises are, in fact, important. Physiotherapy can help if you are finding it difficult to remain active on your own.

How does osteoarthritis develop?

There are usually several factors at play. Age, genetic predisposition, being overweight and a previous joint injury can all influence the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Discuss your symptoms with your GP if the cause is unclear.

Black silhouette of a leg and knee

"If your osteoarthritis symptoms persist or keep recurring, you can discuss exercise guidance with FRISKFYSIO Amstelveen. During your first appointment at FRISKFYSIO Amstelveen, you will have a consultation and a thorough assessment, and one of our professionals will analyse your symptoms. Based on the results, we will determine which treatment is best suited to your condition(s). The physiotherapist will then draw up a clear treatment plan with you, and you will be given some exercises to do at home straight away."

A physiotherapist from FRISKFYSIO examines a patient’s leg

Symptoms of osteoarthritis

Common symptoms include pain when moving, stiffness after rest and difficulty with everyday activities. Sometimes a joint may feel swollen or be less mobile. A cracking sound on its own does not indicate how severe osteoarthritis is.

Your symptoms are not the same every day. Exercise at a level that suits you and build up your activities gradually. If the pain gets noticeably worse, adjust the intensity and discuss this with your practitioner.

What can FRISKFYSIO Amstelveen do for you?

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured with physiotherapy. However, exercise therapy can help you move more easily and reduce pain and limitations. Together, we’ll work on building muscle strength, improving mobility and helping you continue with the activities you enjoy.

We set achievable goals and discuss how you can exercise at home. In the case of knee osteoarthritis, for example, walking, cycling or swimming are often suitable forms of exercise; your capabilities will determine what is appropriate.

APPOINTMENTS AND CONTACT DETAILS

An appointment at FRISKFYSIO Amstelveen

Do you have any questions about support for osteoarthritis, or would you like to make an appointment? Please get in touch with our team or use the online booking tool.