Khaberni - Knee stiffness, hip pain, and chronic joint pain are often seen as an inevitable part of aging. However, while osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease worldwide, experts say treatment and prevention are not entirely consistent with scientific evidence.
According to the "Independent," the best medicine is not found in medicine boxes or operating rooms, but in movement.
However, in different countries and health systems, very few patients are directed towards the only treatment proven effective in protecting their joints and relieving their pain: exercise.
Exercise is the Most Effective Treatment
Exercise is one of the most effective treatments for chronic and disabling joint conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Research across health systems in Ireland, the United Kingdom, Norway, and the United States shows the same pattern: less than half of those with osteoarthritis are referred to physical therapy or exercise by their primary healthcare provider.
More than 60% of them are given treatments not recommended by the guidelines, and about 40% are referred to a surgeon before even trying non-surgical options.
To understand why these numbers are troubling, it is helpful to understand the impact of physical exercise on the joints.
Osteoarthritis The Most Widespread
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting over 595 million people worldwide.
According to a global study published in The Lancet, this number may approach one billion people by 2050.
Increasing life expectancy, increasingly sedentary lifestyles, and rising numbers of overweight or obese individuals contribute to this trend.
However, people who exercise regularly protect themselves from the disease and from suffering from its worst effects.
The cartilage that covers the ends of our bones forms a tough protective layer that lacks its own blood supply. It depends on movement.
Like a sponge, the cartilage compresses when walking or pressing on the joint, expelling fluids and then drawing new nutrients into it. Every step allows nutrients and natural lubricants to circulate and maintain joint health.
Joints Aren't Like Car Tires
For this reason, the old belief that osteoarthritis is just "wear and tear" is misleading. Joints aren't like car tires which inevitably wear out.
Osteoarthritis is better understood as a long process of wear and repair, where regular movement and exercise are crucial for healing and the overall health of the joint.
Therapeutic exercises target all the elements: the joint fluid, the bone lining it, the ligaments, and the surrounding muscles.
Movement quality and balance training also help improve joint stability and restore self-confidence.
