Arthritis – Osteopathy can help
The most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a result of wear and tear of the joints in the body and it most commonly affects people over 50, usually at the joints of the knees, hips, neck and back, base of the toes and hands. There are many other types including ankylosing spondylitis, gout, psoriatic arthritis and reactive arthritis. Certain types of arthritis can also affect children.
An osteopath uses manipulative and massage techniques, to gently move and stretch an arthritic joint, massaging surrounding tissues to help ease some of the discomfort. They may also work on other joints and muscles to help the body function better as a whole. Osteopaths take an holistic approach to treatment and may provide advice on exercise, diet, posture and changes to lifestyle. If necessary they may refer you for a scan or to your GP for further investigations and treatment.
If you or someone you know is suffering the effects of arthritis, osteopathy could help. To arrange a consultation please call us on 01622 685989.
*This year #WorldArthritisDay focuses on the importance of early diagnosis. For more information about the campaign and rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases visit their website at www.worldarthritisday.org/