Arthritis and Physiotherapy in Surrey
Arthritis can make everyday movement feel harder than it used to. You might notice stiffness first thing in the morning, swelling after activity, or pain that limits walking, stairs, grip strength, or sleep. While arthritis cannot be reversed, physiotherapy can help you remain active, improve joint function, and manage flare-ups with a plan that fits your current ability and goals.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
A physiotherapist looks at how your joints move, how your muscles share the workload, and which daily tasks are most affected. Care often focuses on improving mobility, building strength around the joint, and coaching better body mechanics so that the joint is not subjected to additional strain.
Hands-on techniques may be used to ease stiffness and help you move more comfortably. You may also be guided through gentle stretching and strengthening exercises, along with education on posture, joint protection, and activity modification. Our clinic may recommend modalities such as heat, cold, ultrasound, IFC, or laser, depending on the patient’s presentation and clinical reasoning.
Can Physiotherapy Slow The Progression of Arthritis?
Physiotherapy doesn’t change the underlying arthritic process, and arthritis cannot be reversed. What physiotherapy can do is help you move with better mechanics, build strength around the affected joint, and reduce unnecessary strain during day-to-day activities. Over time, that can help many people stay active, maintain function, and feel more confident managing flare-ups with a clear plan.
Exercises That Are Often Included
Your program depends on which joints are involved and what you can tolerate on that day. Common elements include:
- Range of motion work to help reduce stiffness and maintain flexibility
- Strengthening for the muscles around the affected joint
- Low impact cardio options such as walking or stationary cycling
- Balance and stability training when fall risk is a concern
- Aquatic exercise when reducing joint load helps you move better
How Often Should You Come In?
Many people start with weekly visits for about 4 to 8 weeks, then adjust frequency based on progress, flare-ups, and how confident you feel with your home plan. Some people with more persistent symptoms choose check-ins every 2 to 4 weeks for long-term management.
What To Expect at an Appointment
Expect a conversation about your symptoms, goals, and daily routines, followed by an assessment of mobility and function. Your physiotherapist will outline a plan, teach a home program, and progress it gradually based on your response.
Schedule an Arthritis Assessment
If arthritis is limiting your day, a physiotherapy plan can help you build confidence with movement and keep doing the things you enjoy. Book an appointment at Back & Body Wellness Centre today to get started.
