Arthritis (osteoarthritis) is a condition that tends to affect people in middle age. Over time, weight-bearing joints can start to deteriorate. The degeneration of the cartilage that seperates the shin bone (tibia) and thigh bone (femur) can cause knee pain and knee swelling. Certain factors can increase the risk of osteoarthritis. A demanding job with hard, repetitive activity can lead to knee arthritis. Obesity and previous knee injuries such as a torn knee cartilage or an anterior cruciate ligament injury can also increase it’s likelihood.

Some of the symptoms of knee arthritis include knee pain and stiffness as mentioned. Other symptoms include crepitus (a grinding or creaking sensation in the joint), a sense of the knee giving way and the knee becoming bent and bowed.

Osteopathy can play an important role in reducing the symptoms of knee arthritis. An Osteopath will evaluate the extent of motion loss and muscle imbalance and then work hands on the correct these. A programme of specific exercises and actvities will also be addresed.