Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain and stiffness, affecting millions of Canadians — especially as we age. While some people think arthritis means a lifetime of pain or that surgery is inevitable, the reality is quite different.
As registered physiotherapists in Ontario, we see firsthand how targeted physiotherapy can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and delay or even prevent the need for surgery in people living with arthritis. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or have been living with arthritis for years, there’s a lot we can do to help.
🦴 What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints, and it comes in many forms. The two most common types are:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): This is the most common form and involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage in a joint. It often affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and joint damage.
Other types include psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout, but no matter the type, the common thread is joint pain, stiffness, and reduced function.
🩺 Common Symptoms of Arthritis
- Aching or sharp joint pain
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity
- Swelling or warmth in the joint
- Clicking, grinding, or locking of joints
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty with daily tasks (e.g., walking, climbing stairs, gripping objects)
Arthritis symptoms often worsen over time, especially without intervention. But with early treatment, progression can be slowed, and your quality of life can be preserved.
🧑⚕️ How Physiotherapy Helps with Arthritis
Physiotherapy is a frontline, evidence-based treatment for managing arthritis — especially in mild to moderate cases. Our goal is to help you reduce pain, strengthen supporting muscles, improve joint mobility, and stay active.
Here’s how we do it:
1. Personalized Exercise Programs
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage arthritis. The key is to choose the right type and intensity, which is where we come in.
We create a tailored program that focuses on:
- Strengthening the muscles around affected joints
- Improving joint stability and alignment
- Enhancing flexibility and reducing stiffness
- Supporting better balance and coordination
- Increasing overall endurance and mobility
Even low-impact movements can lead to big improvements when done consistently.
2. Pain Management Techniques
We use a variety of treatments to reduce discomfort and inflammation, including:
- Manual therapy (joint mobilization, soft tissue work)
- Heat and cold therapy
- TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
- Gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises
- Education on activity pacing and joint protection
These techniques can relieve pain without relying on medication or invasive procedures.
3. Joint Protection Strategies
We teach you how to use your joints more efficiently and with less strain in daily life. You’ll learn how to:
- Lift, carry, and bend safely
- Modify household or workplace tasks
- Use braces or supports if needed
- Avoid overuse while staying active
This reduces flare-ups and protects your joints from further damage.
4. Posture and Gait Training
As arthritis affects how we move, compensatory habits can lead to other aches and pains. We assess and correct your:
- Walking pattern (gait)
- Standing and sitting posture
- Foot mechanics and footwear choices
- Use of walking aids (e.g., cane, walker)
Optimizing your movement helps reduce pressure on affected joints and improves overall mobility.
🧠 Empowerment Through Education
We believe that understanding your condition is the first step toward managing it. We take time to explain:
- How arthritis affects your body
- What’s safe to do — and what to avoid
- How to manage flare-ups at home
- How to stay active without worsening symptoms
With this knowledge, you’ll feel more confident navigating your condition day-to-day.
🏃♀️ You Can Live Well With Arthritis
Arthritis doesn’t mean giving up the activities you love or accepting a life of pain. With the right physiotherapy approach, many people with arthritis are able to:
- Stay active and independent
- Reduce their need for medication
- Delay or avoid surgery
- Enjoy hobbies and daily tasks again