20/11/2025
Education 101
Let’s Talk: Understanding Arthritis & How Manual Therapy Helps 🦴🤲
Arthritis is one of the most common joint conditions, and understanding it is the first step toward managing it. Let’s break it down.
🔹 The Two Main Types of Arthritis
1️⃣ Osteoarthritis (OA) – “Wear and Tear” Arthritis
What it is:
Osteoarthritis happens when the protective cartilage that cushions your joints gradually wears down.
Over time, the bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
How it develops:
Aging
Repetitive stress on joints
Previous injuries
Genetics
Being overweight (extra load on joints)
2️⃣ Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – Autoimmune Arthritis
What it is:
This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints (synovium).
This causes inflammation, swelling, and can eventually damage cartilage and bone.
How it develops:
The exact cause is unknown
Immune system dysfunction
Possible genetic and environmental triggers
More common in women
🔹 Can Arthritis Be Prevented?
You can’t fully prevent arthritis—especially RA—but you can reduce your risk, delay its onset, or minimize its progression.
Ways to Protect Your Joints:
✔️ Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on knees, hips, and ankles
✔️ Strengthen muscles to support and stabilize joints
✔️ Stay physically active—movement lubricates the joints
✔️ Avoid repetitive stress and take breaks during tasks
✔️ Use proper lifting techniques
✔️ Eat an anti-inflammatory diet (omega-3s, fruits, vegetables)
✔️ Manage blood sugar levels—high glucose weakens cartilage
✔️ Avoid smoking—it increases inflammation and RA risk
These habits support joint health whether you already have arthritis or want to prevent future issues.
🔹 How Manual Therapy Helps Ease Arthritis Symptoms
Manual therapy doesn’t cure arthritis, but it can significantly improve daily comfort and mobility.
Benefits of Manual Therapy for Arthritis:
🤲 1. Reduces Joint Stiffness
Gentle mobilizations help improve the glide and movement within the joint, making everyday tasks easier.
🤲 2. Relieves Muscle Tension
Arthritis often causes surrounding muscles to tighte
