Conditions we treat
Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis
Reviewed by Andrew Macdonald, Senior Physiotherapist — AHPRA registered, APA member
Osteoarthritis vs Rheumatoid Arthritis
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis both affect the joints, but they’re different conditions. Osteoarthritis is a “wear and tear” condition where the cartilage cushioning a joint gradually breaks down, most common in the knees, hips and hands as we age. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, and typically requires ongoing management with a rheumatologist alongside physiotherapy.
Symptoms
Osteoarthritis typically causes joint pain and stiffness that worsens with activity and eases with rest, along with reduced range of motion over time. Rheumatoid arthritis more often causes symmetrical joint pain and swelling (affecting both sides of the body), prolonged morning stiffness, and can involve fatigue and flare-ups.
Treatment
While the underlying conditions differ, physiotherapy plays a valuable role in managing both — reducing pain, maintaining joint mobility, and building strength around affected joints to support them and preserve function. Andrew’s approach combines manual therapy and soft tissue work for pain relief with a tailored, low-impact exercise programme suited to your specific joints and activity level. For rheumatoid arthritis, treatment is coordinated around your broader medical management rather than replacing it.
How we treat it
Treatments used for osteoarthritis & rheumatoid arthritis
Manual TherapyManual therapy uses hands-on techniques — soft tissue work, trigger point therapy, joint mobilisation and fascia distortion release — to ease pain, restore movement and speed recovery.
Exercise RehabilitationA structured, progressive exercise programme — tailored to your condition and stage of recovery — to rebuild strength, restore movement and prevent injuries recurring.Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a "wear and tear" condition where joint cartilage gradually breaks down, most common in the knees, hips and hands with age. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation, and needs ongoing management with a rheumatologist alongside physiotherapy.
Is exercise good or bad for arthritis?
Good, when it's the right type and dose — appropriate exercise helps maintain joint mobility and builds the strength that supports and protects affected joints. Andrew tailors a low-impact programme to your specific joints and activity level rather than recommending generic exercise.
Can physiotherapy help arthritis pain?
Yes — physiotherapy plays a valuable role in managing both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, combining manual therapy and soft tissue work for pain relief with a tailored exercise programme to maintain function. For rheumatoid arthritis, treatment is coordinated around your broader medical management rather than replacing it.
Does osteoarthritis get worse over time?
It's typically a gradual, progressive condition, but its impact on your pain and function can be managed considerably with the right approach. Staying active with an appropriately tailored exercise programme is one of the most effective ways to maintain mobility and slow the impact on daily life.
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