Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of pain and disability in adults worldwide. It is most common in the over 45 age group, but can also affect younger people that have another joint condition or have suffered previous injury.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a common condition which causes pain, swelling and inflammation and often stiffness in the joints of the body. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis but there are many other types including ankylosing spondylitis, gout, psoriatic arthritis and reactive arthritis. Certain types of arthritis can also affect children.
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Osteoarthritis is a result of wear and tear of the joints in the body. It is common in people over 50 and most commonly affects the joints of the knees, hips, neck and back, base of the toes and hands. Osteopathy can help reduce the pain of osteoarthritis, especially when used in conjunction with relevant exercise, diet and lifestyle advice.
How can Osteopathy help?
As osteopaths we use a range of gentle manipulative and massage techniques, which can help some osteoarthritis sufferers feel less pain. Each treatment is tailored to the individual, gently moving and stretching an arthritic joint and massaging surrounding muscles and tissues to help ease some of the discomfort.
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We’re also interested in how the whole body functions so we’ll take a look at the general mobility of the other joints and muscles of your body, to help things move better overall. We’ll also give advice on exercises, diet, posture and changes to your lifestyle that will help. X-rays, scans or other tests may be required and we may refer you to your GP for any additional investigations and treatment.
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Call us today to find out more about Osteopathy treatment for arthritis or to book an appointment at our well established, friendly Osteopathy clinic located in Old Harlow. We are well located and are happy to see patients from any area including Sawbridgeworth, Bishop's Stortford, Epping, Roydon, Nazeing, Broxbourne, North Weald, Loughton, Ongar, Stanstead and beyond.
