Arthritis
Arthritis Rehabilitation
“My joints are stiff and painful most days”
Arthritis is common, but pain and stiffness can often be reduced with the right exercise, education and daily strategies.
This guide is general education to help you understand your options. It is not a diagnosis — only an assessment by a qualified clinician can tell you what is causing your symptoms.
In plain words
Arthritis describes changes in a joint that can cause pain and stiffness. Movement is not harmful to arthritic joints — the right exercise helps keep them strong and mobile. Physiotherapy focuses on what you can do.
What you may notice
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
- Pain with activity or after rest
- Swelling or reduced movement
- Difficulty with daily tasks
Common causes
- Osteoarthritis (wear-related changes)
- Inflammatory arthritis (needs medical management)
- Previous joint injury
What an assessment may include
- Understanding your daily limitations
- Joint range, strength and walking assessment
- Reviewing medical management with your doctor
Your care pathway
Education about arthritis and pacing
Strength and mobility programme
Walking aids or supports if helpful
Long-term self-management plan
Clinical detail
For osteoarthritis, exercise and education are core treatments; inflammatory arthritis requires rheumatology input alongside rehabilitation.
When to seek prompt medical help
- Sudden hot, swollen joint with fever
- Rapidly worsening joint pain with rash or feeling unwell
In an emergency, call 108 or go to the nearest emergency department. This website cannot provide emergency care.
How we can help
- Orthopaedic PhysiotherapyAssessment and rehabilitation for joint, muscle, bone and spine problems.
- Geriatric PhysiotherapyKeeping older adults strong, steady and independent.
- Exercise TherapyPersonalised, progressive exercise — the foundation of lasting recovery.
- Pain RehabilitationHelping people with persistent pain move more and live better.