Arthritis & Joint Pain

Arthritis pain is usually described as stiffness and aching in the knees, hips, hands or spine that is worse after rest or towards the end of the day. Because joints hurt with movement, activity often drops — and muscles around the joint weaken, which makes the joint feel even less supported.

Physiotherapy works on what can still be improved: the strength and control of the muscles around the joint, the range of movement available, how you walk and how your daily tasks are set up.

How physiotherapy can help

The physiotherapy plan for arthritis usually combines manual therapy to ease stiffness, electrotherapy such as TENS or ultrasound where the assessment supports it, and a graded strengthening and mobility programme.

You will also be advised on activity modification — what to keep doing, what to change for now, and how much discomfort is acceptable while exercising. If the joint is acutely swollen or you have new symptoms, the clinic will refer you back to your doctor.