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Osteoarthritis is a progressive joint condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling, which makes movement more difficult.

While it’s often referred to as “wear and tear,” osteoarthritis affects millions of people, leading to limitations in everyday activities. Fortunately, with clinical exercise, you can manage symptoms, restore function, and take control of your health. Osteoarthritis affects close to 10 million people in the UK, 6 million of whom are female. Although osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, the most common joints affected by osteoarthritis are the knees, hips, small joints in the hand, neck and lower back.

Exercise for osteoarthritis

The Arthritis Foundation and NHS recommend exercise as the most effective non-drug treatment for managing osteoarthritis. Not only does exercise reduce pain, but it also improves joint mobility, restores strength, and has no harmful side effects. In addition, exercise helps with weight management, balance, and mental well-being, all of which are important for reducing pain and improving quality of life.

Recommended exercise types for osteoarthritis

Strength training

Using bodyweight, resistance bands or weights to increase the strength of the muscles surrounding the affected joint can help improve the joints stability, improve joint mechanics and reduce the degradation of cartilage. Strength training is also effective for improving bone density, balance and posture.

Low impact aerobic exercise

Walking, cycling, swimming or using home-based equipment can help reduce the joints pain by aiding in joint lubrication and nourishment.

Balance training

Tai chi, yoga, balance training and stretching all help to increase flexibility and improve a joints range of motion.

Kind words from our clients

"Aged 85, I was referred to Longevity Health & Fitness by my Consultant in Sport & Exercise Medicine to arrange for a personal trainer to help me with strengthening & conditioning exercises. Using the exercises & plan she has chosen for me, I am making remarkable progress. Emma is an excellent trainer and I would certainly recommend her. She is kind and patient, explains everything clearly, and has helped me through. Thank you!"
Seymour (85)

How we can help

Don’t let osteoarthritis hold you back. Take the first step toward improved mobility and reduced pain with our bespoke exercise solutions.

Our Exercise Physiologist team are experienced in working with people to improve their strength, fitness and mobility while managing and improving osteoarthritis symptoms.

Step 1: A comprehensive consultation

The process begins with an initial consultation and thorough movement assessment so that we can fully understand your medical history and how your current symptoms are impacting your day to day life.

Step 2: A customised exercise program

Once the movement assessment is complete, the Exercise Physiologist you will be working with will design a bespoke, engaging and dynamic exercise programme incorporating a combination of the recommended types of exercise for osteoarthritis. They will also take into any other fitness goals you have, as well as any other conditions you may be managing.

Step 3: Ongoing weekly sessions

Each week, you will have one or more live one-hour session(s) with your Exercise Physiologist, who will visit your home or coach you online based on your preferences.

Step 4: Home exercise support

Outside of the sessions, you can expect to be given an individualised home-exercise plan to complete in your own time and your Exercise Physiologist will provide encouragement, accountability and enthusiasm to help keep you on track.