Arthritis: Don't Let It Stop You!

When most people think of “arthritis,” they’re actually thinking of osteoarthritis (OA) — the most common form of arthritis. It’s a condition that affects millions of people, often causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the joints. But what exactly is osteoarthritis, and what can you do about it?

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a joint disease where the cartilage — the smooth, protective tissue at the ends of your bones — gradually weakens over time. While traditionally OA has been described as a "wear and tear" process, current research is suggesting that there is primarily an inflammatory process involved in its development and that physical use and activity is not generally the cause of it. OA most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, but it can impact almost any joint in the body.

How Is Osteoarthritis Different from Other Types of Arthritis?

While OA is driven by inflammatory markers, other types of arthritis have different root causes:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks joint tissue, causing swelling, redness, and fatigue — often in a symmetrical pattern (e.g., both wrists).

• Psoriatic arthritis is linked to the skin condition psoriasis and can affect any part of the body, including the spine and fingertips.

• Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint, often presenting with sudden, severe pain, usually in the big toe.

In contrast, OA tends to come on gradually and is often more mechanical in nature — you may notice pain with activity, stiffness after sitting, or decreased range of motion in the morning that improves as you get moving.

What Increases the Risk of Developing Osteoarthritis?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing OA, including:

• Age – Risk increases with age, especially after 50.

• Previous joint injuries – Past injuries, even ones that seemed to heal, can contribute to OA later in life.

• Obesity – Excess weight puts more stress on weight-bearing joints like hips and knees and can contribute to a hyper-inflammatory state throughout the body.

• Genetics – A family history of OA can raise your risk.

• Occupation or repetitive stress – Jobs or sports involving repetitive joint movements can accelerate symptoms if they involve provocative activities.

• Joint abnormalities or alignment issues – Uneven joint stress over time can increase risk.

Treatment Options: From Conservative to Surgical

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless against it. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of symptoms:

• Doing nothing – While some people choose to ignore early symptoms, this can lead to worsening pain and loss of mobility over time.

• Lifestyle modifications – Weight loss, joint protection, and activity pacing can make a big difference in daily comfort.

• Exercise and physical therapy – One of the most effective, evidence-based treatments. At Rock Solid, we specialize in designing movement-based programs that reduce pain, improve strength, and restore joint function. Regular movement helps nourish the joint, strengthen supporting muscles, and improve balance and flexibility.

• Medications and injections – Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or corticosteroid injections can provide short-term relief but don’t address the root of the problem.

• Joint replacement surgery – In advanced cases where conservative care fails, procedures like knee or hip replacements may be necessary. Even then, pre- and post-operative physical therapy is essential for optimal recovery.

Why Physical Therapy Should Be Your First Step

Research consistently shows that targeted exercise and physical therapy can reduce pain, improve mobility, and delay the need for surgery in many people with osteoarthritis. At Rock Solid Physical Therapy and Performance, our goal is to empower you to move better, feel stronger, and return to doing the things you love — without relying solely on medications or invasive procedures.

Don’t Let Joint Pain Hold You Back

If you’re dealing with joint stiffness, pain with activity, or suspect you may have osteoarthritis, don’t wait until the discomfort worsens. Reach out to Rock Solid Physical Therapy and Performance today. We’ll help you build a customized, research-backed plan to manage your symptoms and reclaim your active lifestyle.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward feeling your best.