Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. Osteoarthritis, where the cartilage in a joint wears and the joint becomes stiff and painful, is the most common type and often affects the knees, hips, hands and spine.
There is no single cure, but staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and the right therapy can help manage pain and keep joints moving.
Physiotherapists can design exercises to strengthen the muscles around affected joints and improve mobility. Gentle massage, hydrotherapy and pain management therapies can ease stiffness and discomfort, while low-impact movement such as Pilates, yoga or tai chi helps keep joints flexible.