Arthritis

The Osteo Clinic, St Albans

What is arthritis?

Arthritis means inflammation of the joints. Most people who are diagnosed with arthritis will experience pain and difficulty moving around. It is estimated around 10 million people in the UK have arthritis and, like them, you can take control of your symptoms and continue to have a good quality of life. There are several forms of arthritis ranging from:

Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Gout
Secondary arthritis
Reactive arthritis
Ankylosing spondylitis
Fibromyalgia
PMR
Psoriatic arthritis
Lupus

The most common form is osteoarthritis, it usually develops gradually, over a period of time, affecting several different joints such as hands, knees, hips, feet and spine. Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, however the condition may settle down after a number of years and there is plenty you can do to relieve your symptoms.

How would arthritis affect me?

Osteoarthritis is a condition that develops over time. Changes can be slow and subtle in some people, whereas in others, the pain and stiffness will gradually worsen until the disease process finishes.

What Causes it?

There is no known cause for osteoarthritis, but it is more common among women. Osteoarthritis can develop at any age. Injury is also known as a factor even many years later.

How can we help you?

As a clinic our treatment and self-management programme is designed to teach you skills to live life to the full and to help you get the most from your treatment plan.

What to expect

The Osteopath will make an assessment of your posture, muscles, and the way you walk. They will ask about the activities which cause you pain, together with advice and a personalised treatment plan with the aim to maintain a quality of life for now and the future ahead.