OSTEOARTHRITIS

I can provide tailored training programs for rehab from general injuries, sport specific injuries, pre and post surgery recovery and degenerative conditions specific training for specialised areas. Reduce pain and stiffness through movement, build strong muscle around the joints, and increase flexibility and endurance. Rehab post injury or surgery or prehab before surgery. Any age, and any condition I can help with them all.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative condition, where your body’s cartilage diminishes. Osteoarthritis commonly affects the large joints such as the knees and hips but frequently occurs in the hands, the base of the big toe and the spine. It is a condition that affects the whole joint. Cartilage breakdown and inflammation can lead to pain, discomfort and reduced quality of life.

Unfortunately, Osteoarthritis  is a condition which cannot be reversed. However, with correct progressive exercises, gentle stretching, and good diet the level of discomfort can be improved and managed.

I give home-based exercises and stretching to help with OA or rehab based work focusing on the affected areas. I want to help you learn how to stretch the muscles which give you relief and how to strengthen the affected muscles to in turn support the joints. Only once the muscles are strong can they really support the joints sufficiently.

There is also a very important relationship between diet and osteoarthritis, particularly if you are overweight. If you have obesity or overweight this increases the strain on joints. Excess fat also causes inflammation which can exacerbate symptoms. There is strong evidence that losing weight can reduce pain and improve physical function and mobility. If you have overweight or obesity, losing at least ten per cent of your body weight will give most benefit, not only for symptoms but for overall health.

Incorporating exercise alongside dietary changes helps to maintain muscle while losing weight. This has been shown to increase physical function. Osteoarthritis has been linked to cardiovascular disease. Losing excess weight will also help to prevent or manage this. I can also offer nutrition advice and management for rehab or osteoarthritis in addition to training if desired.

If you would like to know more please contact me and I’ll be happy to answer your questions.