March 26, 2025 | by info@kayaphysiotherapy.uk
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis in the UK, affecting millions of people every year. Although many people believe joint pain is simply a normal part of ageing, persistent pain, stiffness and reduced mobility should never be ignored.
The good news is that surgery is not always the first or only option.
In 2025, physiotherapy remains one of the most effective evidence-based treatments for managing osteoarthritis. Research consistently shows that exercise therapy, strength training and personalised rehabilitation programmes can significantly reduce pain, improve function and help people stay active for longer.
In this guide, we’ll explain the best physiotherapy treatments for osteoarthritis and how they can help you regain confidence in movement.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that causes the protective cartilage within joints to gradually wear down over time.
It commonly affects:
Common symptoms include:
While age is a risk factor, osteoarthritis can also affect younger adults due to previous injuries, obesity, repetitive strain or genetic factors.
The latest clinical guidelines from organisations such as the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) continue to recommend exercise and education as first-line treatments for osteoarthritis.
Physiotherapy focuses on improving how your body moves rather than simply masking symptoms.
A physiotherapist will assess:
Treatment is then tailored to your individual needs.
Benefits include:
✓ Reduced pain
✓ Improved mobility
✓ Increased muscle strength
✓ Better balance
✓ Improved confidence in movement
✓ Reduced reliance on pain medication
✓ Potential delay or prevention of surgery
One of the most effective physiotherapy treatments for osteoarthritis is progressive strength training.
Strong muscles help absorb force and reduce stress placed on painful joints.
Evidence suggests strengthening exercises can significantly improve physical function, particularly for knee and hip osteoarthritis.
Common exercises include:
Physiotherapists gradually increase intensity to avoid flare-ups.
Many people avoid movement because they fear making arthritis worse.
However, staying inactive can actually increase pain and stiffness.
Low-impact aerobic exercise helps:
Recommended activities include:
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, adjusted to your abilities.
Manual therapy can be used alongside exercise programmes.
Your physiotherapist may use hands-on techniques to improve:
Examples include:
Manual therapy works best when combined with an active rehabilitation programme rather than as a standalone treatment.
People with osteoarthritis often experience reduced balance, particularly when the knees or hips are affected.
Balance training can help reduce the risk of falls.
Exercises may include:
Improving balance also increases confidence during daily activities.
Understanding your condition is a key part of successful treatment.
A physiotherapist will teach you:
Even a small reduction in body weight can significantly reduce pressure on weight-bearing joints.
Learn how to manage periods of increased symptoms without completely stopping movement.
In many cases, YES
Physiotherapy cannot reverse cartilage loss, but it can significantly improve how your joints function.
Many people can delay or avoid surgery by following a structured rehabilitation programme.
Surgery may only become necessary if:
Even if surgery is eventually required, stronger muscles beforehand often improve recovery outcomes afterwards.
Seek professional advice if:
Early intervention often leads to better long-term outcomes.
Living with osteoarthritis does not mean giving up the activities you enjoy.
The evidence is clear: movement is medicine.
A personalised physiotherapy programme can help reduce pain, improve mobility and support long-term joint health without immediately resorting to surgery.
If you are experiencing ongoing joint pain, early assessment by a physiotherapist can make a significant difference to your recovery and quality of life.
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