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Written by our Human Movement Specialists
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common form of arthritis, known as the 'wear and tear' arthritis. It can occur in your hands, hips and knees. It is a degenerative joint disease as the cartilage, in between the bones, breaks down over time causing stiffness and swelling. In some people, it can reduce function making everyday tasks difficult.
How Does it Feel
Pain or aching, decreased range of motion, limited flexibility, stiffness in the joint and swelling. OA can occur in one compartment (unicompartmental) of the knee joint or both (bicomompartmental) so the pain is felt on the inside, outside or both of the knee. Many find symptoms are aggravated when standing, walking or performing other activities.
How we help
Overuse injuries can worsen osteoarthritis, therefore using a brace or support to stabilize, and reduce swelling can be beneficial. If you have already been diagnosed with OA, wearing an Unloader brace to reduce pressure generally provides pain relief, improved mobility, and slows down degeneration.
We have solutions for:
Knee osteoarthritis: off-the-shelf and custom knee Unloader braces
Hip osteoarthritis: hip Unloaders
Wrist osteoarthritis: splints and compression wraps
Rheumatoid arthritis: insoles, custom foot orthotics, and footwear recommendations
Book an appointment with one of our Human Movement Specialists to be measured and fit for a bracing solution or with one of our Certified Canadian Pedorthists regarding orthotics or shoe recommendations.
Further Treatment Offerings
P3 cream is an all-natural anti-inflammatory and pain relief cream.
Urban Poling trekking poles can help take pressure of the hip and knee joints
Physical therapy modalities include icing, taping, massage, stretching programs targeting the painful joint.