Osteoarthritis

There are over 100 different types of arthritis however the most commonly diagnosed is osteoarthritis. It is commonly seen in adults from the age of 40 and occurs when the smooth protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. It is most commonly found in the joints of the hands, knees, hips and spine.

What can cause Osteoarthritis to develop?

There are factors that may increase the chance of developing Osteoarthritis, including:

What are the symptoms of Osteoarthritis?

The symptoms of osteoarthritis normally become worse as the disease progresses. Symptoms include;

What are the treatments for Osteoarthritis?

There is no cure for osteoarthritis however close management of the condition can help reduce symptoms and slow its progression.

Medication - pain killers can provide pain relief to enable activity. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) act to reduce inflammation. A doctor will be able to prescribe the most effective medication taking into account the overall condition and any other medical issues.

Steroid injections - a steroid can be injected to reduce inflammation and pain in a joint. The lasting effects of a steroid injection can vary and there is a restriction on how many steroids can be administered into the body over a period of time.

Losing weight - Losing or maintaining a healthy body weight will take stress off the joints.

Physiotherapy - A physiotherapist can provide specific exercises to strengthen weak muscles. They can also provide education on the type of activities that are reasonable for taking into account your lifestyle and stage of condition. Physio can also provide a TENS machine if they deem this treatment appropriate.

Surgery - When a knee, hip or elbow joint is severely affected by Osteoarthritis a partial or total joint replacement is an option. Surgical fusion can realign joint deformities and limit painful joint movements. Surgery comes with significant risks, so it is normally only considered in extreme cases and when all other treatment options have been exhausted.

Orthotics - There is a wide range of custom made and ‘off the shelf’ orthotic devices that can be effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Continue reading for more information.

How can Liverpool Orthotics help treat Osteoarthritis?

They are many custom made and ‘off the shelf’ orthotic braces that can be effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis. An orthotic device can support, stabilise, assist or limit movement at a joint. Liverpool Orthotics provide braces for the;

Hip

There are a range of hips braces available on the market. Some hip braces limit the range of movement, while other hip support work to offload the area of the hip that is worn.

Knee

Knee bracing is commonly used to reduce pain and increase mobility. There are knee braces to provide general knee support and braces specifically designed to take the weight off the part of the knee which has worn away. This is most commonly medial (inside) knee osteoarthritis. There are many braces on the market for this condition and Liverpool Orthotics will be able to identify the most effective solution for your condition, lifestyle and goals.

Ankle

Ankle braces, also known as AFO’s, can provide support and stability. This can be particularly helpful during a flare up. Ankle supports can also restrict movement and act as an external fusion in situations where surgery is not suitable.

Wrist

Wrist supports are most frequently used to provide stability to the wrist for everyday tasks that may cause pain without support.

Thumb

Osteoarthritis of the thumb is very common particularly from overuse from an individual’s occupation. Thumb support restricts movement in the painful joints and offers stability when carrying out everyday tasks.

Back

Back supports can be provided to improve posture or for short periods of time during the day. In most cases back supports are not advised to be worn all day, but for certain activities, such as gardening or cooking, or period of the day when pain might be at its peak. Back supports can be a really effective way to enable someone suffering with osteoarthritis of the spine to carry on with a good standard of life.

What is the process to having an assessment with Liverpool Orthotics?

The first step is to book an initial consultant with one of our HCPC or BAPO registered orthotists at home, work or at one of our clinics.

During the initial consultation the orthotist will establish your goals of treatment, take a relevant medical history and carry out a full physical examination. This will include muscle power tests, range of movement tests and a biomechanical assessment (if appropriate).

The orthotist will then be able to advise on the best form of treatment and take scan, measurements and plaster casts to provide a well fitting orthotic device. A suitable fitting appointment can then be arranged. Liverpool Orthotics provide a complimentary review appointment to ensure all orthotic devices are having the desired effect.

To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk