Knee and Hip Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis currently affects approximately 3.6 million Australians. Equally, approximately 2 million people live with some form of knee and/or hip osteoarthritis. Furthermore, It is more common in females, people who are overweight and people suffering from a previous injury. It is a condition that leads to painful joints and surrounding tissues, difficulty moving and has an impact on daily living activities.
Treatment
Fortunately, there are effective treatments for osteoarthritis of the knee/hip that do not involve surgery. Therefore, joint replacement surgery will only be needed in cases where the patient experiences significant pain and has not responded to non-surgical/conservative treatment options.
One of the most effective non-surgical approaches to managing knee/hip osteoarthritis is exercise therapy. In particular, there is strong evidence that strength training is the most effective form of exercise therapy.
What exercise therapy is best for my Osteoarthritis?
Depending on your current activity levels, there are many kinds of exercises and strengthening programs that can be tailored by your physiotherapist, including:
- Hydrotherapy (water exercise)
- Body weight strengthening program
- Cycling/bike riding
- Walking program
- Swimming program
- Gym strengthening program
How can I get help?
The team at Hoppers Physio are fully equipped to assess and deliver a specific and individualised program to treat knee and hip osteoarthritis. Additionally, you may be eligible to receive a rebate to assist you in physiotherapy treatment. Contact your local general practitioner to determine if you can participate in the Medicare Enhance Primary Care Program.
Contact the Hoppers Crossing Physio team at 9749 5110 or book online to discuss a tailored program for treating your osteoarthritis with one of our physiotherapists.