Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in Australia, affecting 1 in 5 Australians over the age of 45, and more than 1 in 3 over the age of 751.
Characterised by the breakdown of cartilage, bones in the joints of osteoarthritis sufferers rub together, causing pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced movement2.
We chatted with HBF Physio Rockingham Managing Executive Physiotherapist, Tom Hunter, to learn more about osteoarthritis, including signs, symptoms and the treatments available.
What is osteoarthritis?
“Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterised by the breakdown of cartilage, which is the tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. This breakdown leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints.
“As the cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub against each other, causing further damage and restricting movement,” Hunter explains.
While osteoarthritis commonly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, it can also occur in the hands and other joints. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include age, genetics, weight, previous joint injuries, and certain occupations that involve repetitive joint movements2.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis symptoms develop gradually over time, the most common of which is joint pain. “Osteoarthritis pain is often described as a dull ache or sharp sensation and is usually accompanied by stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. As the disease progresses, joints may become swollen and tender to the touch.
“In advanced stages, many sufferers experience decreased range of motion and difficulty moving the affected joint(s) freely,” says Hunter.
Osteoarthritis can also cause the formation of bone spurs, visible as hard lumps around the affected joint3. Additionally, in weight-bearing joints like the knees or hips, individuals may notice a grating or crunching sensation, known as crepitus, when moving the joint4.
How is osteoarthritis treated?
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, management of the condition typically involves a combination of treatments aimed at reducing pain, improving joint function, and slowing the progression of the disease. These include:
Regular exercise: Low-impact types of exercise such as yoga, walking, swimming, cycling and strength training are some of the most effective treatments for managing osteoarthritis2.
“These activities are designed to strengthen muscles around the affected joint(s) and improve flexibility and range of motion without putting a lot of stress on your joints.
“Before you start any new exercise, it’s a good idea to talk to a health professional to make sure it’s safe and suitable for you. A physiotherapist will be able to give you more specific and personalised guidance on exercises,” says Hunter.
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight: Weight management is crucial for managing osteoarthritis, as excess weight can exacerbate symptoms due to persistent systemic inflammation. Dietitians can provide advice on healthy eating and weight loss to help manage osteoarthritis symptoms2.
Special devices and footwear: Aids like walking sticks, knee braces and footwear changes (such as insoles) may be helpful in managing osteoarthritis. A physiotherapist, podiatrist or occupational therapist can help you find the right solution for you2.
Pain management: Pain relief options for osteoarthritis symptoms can include heat packs, paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), and cortisone injections2.
Surgery: If your osteoarthritis symptoms cannot be managed in the above ways, you may be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon. A surgeon will discuss options with you which may include joint replacement in advanced cases where exercise and conservative management has not been beneficial.
How can HBF help with osteoarthritis?
The GLA:D® Program: Delivered in partnership with HBF Physio and other approved program providers, the GLA:D® Program is designed to reduce pain, improve strength and help you move more confidently. Evidence has shown participants experience an average pain reduction off 33% after completing the program5.
Eligible HBF members can access the program at no additional cost when delivered by a participating HBF Physio or other approved program provider clinic6. Learn more.
Stand Up to Joint Pain: We’ve partnered with Prima Health Solutions to help you better manage symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis. The Stand Up to Joint Pain program includes a personalised treatment plan and will be delivered in the comfort of your own home via telehealth or telephone by an experienced physiotherapist.
If eligible, HBF members can access Stand Up to Joint Pain at no extra cost7. Learn more.
Osteoarthritis Healthy Weight for Life: Delivered in three phases, this 18-week program is designed to promote long-lasting behaviour change, supporting weight loss, increased mobility and better pain management. You’ll be supported by a progressive dietary plan aimed at achieving sustainable weight loss and improved eating habits.
Eligible HBF members can access this health and wellness program in partnership with Prima Health Solutions at no extra cost8. Learn more.
HBF Extras Cover: Our extras cover is here to help you access health professionals like dieticians, podiatrists, and of course, physiotherapists.
“Receiving multidisciplinary care by getting support from a range of different health specialists is a key principle for managing osteoarthritis,” says Hunter.
“We’re here to help you achieve substantial benefits in pain reduction and improved function.”
Extras cover to keep you moving
With benefits for physio, remedial massage, dietetics and more, HBF extras can help support your
wellbeing.
Find out more
Disclaimers:
6 The GLA:D® program is fully covered for eligible members who hold eligible hospital covers. Members may participate in the program once per lifetime. Waiting periods and other terms and conditions may apply. Members must currently be financial.
7 To be eligible for the fully funded Stand Up to Joint Pain program, you must have:
- Been diagnosed with knee or hip osteoarthritis
- Held hospital insurance that includes cover for joint replacements for at least 2 months, and
- Not have previously enrolled in a Stand Up to Joint Pain program funded by HBF.
Prima Health Solutions advise you must be willing to maintain medical supervision for existing medical conditions.
You must also hold an eligible level of HBF hospital cover and meet the program eligibility criteria. Members may only participate in each HBF health support program once per lifetime. Members must currently be financial.
8 To be eligible for the fully funded Osteoarthritis Healthy Weight for Life program, you must have:
- Been diagnosed with knee or hip osteoarthritis
- A body mass index (BMI) of 28 or above
- Held hospital cover that includes cover for joint replacements for at least 2 months
- Not have previously enrolled in an Osteoarthritis Healthy Weight for Life program funded by HBF.
AND clinical need for either:
- Conservative treatment - knee or hip symptoms that have (or are likely to in the foreseeable future) necessitated referral to an orthopaedic surgeon for evaluation, OR
- Preparing for surgery - a knee or hip joint replacement procedure is planned and weight loss, improved fitness and muscle strength prior to surgery is desirable OR
- Post-surgery - an existing symptomatic knee or hip joint replacement that could benefit from weight loss, improved fitness and muscle strength.
You must be willing to maintain medical supervision for existing medical conditions.
You must also hold an eligible level of HBF hospital cover and meet the program eligibility criteria. Members may only participate in each HBF health support program once per lifetime. Members must currently be financial.
This article contains general information only and does not take into account the health, personal situation or
needs of any person. In conjunction with your GP or treating health care professional, please consider whether
the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances.