Arthritis Treatment near Christchurch & Bournemouth
Physio Fitness helps people living with arthritis move more comfortably, build strength around stiff or painful joints and stay active for longer. Our team of physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors and sports therapists works from our Swallow Barn clinic on Parley Green Lane, a short drive from Christchurch, Bournemouth, Ferndown and Wimborne.
Arthritis is common, but it does not mean you have to give up walking, gardening, sport or time with family. With a clear diagnosis and the right plan, many people find they can do more than they expected.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term for conditions that cause pain, stiffness and sometimes swelling in the joints. It can affect people of any age, although it becomes more common as we get older.
The two types we see most often are:
- Osteoarthritis: the most common form, where the cartilage that cushions a joint gradually thins and the joint can become stiff, achy and less flexible. It often affects the knees, hips, hands, spine and big toe.
- Inflammatory arthritis: conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, where the immune system causes inflammation in the joints. These are usually managed by your GP or a rheumatologist, and physiotherapy can work alongside that care to help you stay strong and mobile.
Changes seen on an X-ray do not always match how a joint feels day to day. Two people with similar scans can have very different levels of pain, which is why we focus on how your joints are actually working for you.
Common signs of arthritis
Symptoms tend to build gradually and can come and go. You might notice:
- Joint pain that eases with gentle movement but flares after a busy day
- Stiffness first thing in the morning or after sitting for a while
- A grinding or crunching feeling when the joint moves
- Swelling around the joint or knuckles
- Reduced range of movement, such as difficulty bending the knee or turning the neck
- Weakness in the muscles around the affected joint
If a joint suddenly becomes hot, red and very swollen, or you feel generally unwell with a high temperature, contact your GP or NHS 111 the same day.
Which joints can be affected?
Arthritis can show up almost anywhere, but some joints take more load than others. We regularly help with arthritis linked to knee pain, hip and groin pain, back pain, neck pain, wrist and hand pain and foot and ankle pain. Problems in one joint can also change the way you move, so we always look at the bigger picture.
How we treat arthritis at Physio Fitness
Our approach combines clear explanation, targeted exercise and hands-on care, with access to specialist equipment and treatments when they are likely to help.
A thorough first assessment
Your clinician will talk through your symptoms, daily routine and goals, then look at how your joints, muscles and movement are working together. Our team will also assess you and use our specialist technology throughout your treatment at no further cost. You will leave knowing what is going on and what the plan is.
Exercise and strength work
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage osteoarthritis, and NICE guidance recommends it as a core part of treatment. Stronger muscles help support and protect a joint, and regular movement helps keep it supple. Through functional rehab in our private rehab studio, we build a programme that starts where you are and progresses at a pace that feels manageable.
Hands-on treatment
Physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic care and sports massage can all help ease stiffness and muscle tension, making it easier to move and to get the most from your exercises.
Low-impact rehab equipment
Some people with arthritis find walking or cycling uncomfortable at first. Our AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill lets you walk with reduced body weight, which can take pressure off sore knees and hips while you build fitness. ForceFrame strength testing helps us measure strength around the joint and track your progress over time. Our GameReady Ice Compression Machine can also be used to help reduce pain and swelling.
Injections and other options
Where symptoms are not settling, other treatments may be discussed as part of your wider plan. These include ultrasound scan, ultrasound-guided joint injections, such as corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections, focused shockwave, laser therapy, and MBST therapy. Your clinician will explain whether these are suitable for you and what to expect.
When should you get help for arthritis?
It is worth booking an assessment if:
- Joint pain or stiffness is stopping you from doing things you enjoy
- You are relying more and more on painkillers to get through the day
- You have lost confidence walking, using stairs or exercising
- You have been told you have arthritis but are unsure what you can safely do
- You want to stay as active and independent as possible
You do not need a GP referral to see us, and you do not need a scan or X-ray first.
Why choose Physio Fitness for arthritis care near Christchurch and Bournemouth?
- A multidisciplinary team: led by founder and clinical director Dave Mott, our team brings physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic and sports therapy together under one roof.
- Everything in one place: assessment, scanning, hands-on treatment, rehab and injections are all available at the same clinic.
- A purpose-built rehab space: our clinic includes a fully equipped rehab studio and an outdoor rehab area.
- Easy to reach: we are on Parley Green Lane with free on-site parking, convenient for patients from Christchurch, Bournemouth, Poole and East Dorset.
Not sure which treatment is right for you? A free Discovery Visit is a relaxed chat with no pressure, where we can talk through your joints, your goals and how we might help.
Your questions, answered.
Can physiotherapy help arthritis?
Is it safe to exercise with arthritis?
Do I need an X-ray before booking?
Are joint injections right for arthritis?
How long does it take to see improvement?
Book arthritis treatment near Christchurch and Bournemouth
If arthritis is holding you back, the team at Physio Fitness can help you understand your joints and build a plan to keep you moving.
or call us on 01202 611 244.