📝 Living with Arthritis

Contrary to popular belief, arthritis is not a singular term which affects the elderly. To put it simply, arthritis is a broad umbrella term describing symptoms like pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion and structural changes in joints.

Arthritis can be divided into two broad categories –

1.     Degenerative/non-inflammatory arthritis, most commonly known as osteoarthritis

2.     Inflammatory arthritis, like Rheumatoid arthritis, gout and infective arthritis

It can also manifest itself as post-traumatic arthritis or as part of other connective tissue disorders like scleroderma, lupus, etc. The good news? There are effective ways to manage arthritis at home. Pairing these strategies with guidance from a qualified MSK physiotherapy clinic in Swansea can make them even more effective.

📝 What can You Do?

Arthritis manifests itself in different ways in different people. There are loads of simple self-management strategies, like the following, which will help manage the condition.

1. Keep Moving (Little and Often)

Movement is one of the best things you can do for arthritis. Staying still for too long allows joints to stiffen, while gentle movement reduces pain. You don’t need long, intense workouts - small, regular movement wins every time.

Helpful daily habits include:

·       Short, frequent walks

·       Light mobility routines in the morning

·       Changing position every 20-30 minutes

·       Gentle stretching after periods of rest

2. Strengthening Exercises

Stronger muscles help support and stabilise arthritic joints, reducing strain and improving ease of movement.

Some safe, effective strengthening exercises include:

·       Sit-to-stands (great for knee and hip arthritis)

·       Heel raises (for ankle and foot support)

·       Bridging for hip and lower back strength

Everyone’s arthritis behaves differently, but strengthening is one of the most reliable long-term ways to reduce pain. Generic online exercises can work, but tailored exercises, based on your strength, stiffness, mobility, and lifestyle, create better, faster, and safer progress. Our physiotherapists at the Swansea clinic are equipped to personalise a treatment plan for you.

3. Low-Impact Cardio

Activities like swimming, cycling, or walking provide cardiovascular benefits without putting excessive load on the joints. They also improve flexibility and mood. Aim for:

·       20-30 minutes, 3-5 times per week

·       A pace where you can still talk comfortably

4. Pain Management & Pacing

Pacing doesn’t mean “doing less”. It means spreading activity out gradually, so you don’t overdo it on good days and underdo it on bad ones.

Strategies can include:

·       Breaking tasks into smaller chunks

·       Taking short, regular rest breaks

·       Planning more demanding activities for times of day when you tend to feel better

📝 Where Physiotherapy Fits In

Home strategies are powerful, but many people find they get the best results when they combine self-management with professional support.

Working with our MSK physiotherapy clinic in Swansea can help you:

1.     Get an Accurate Understanding of Your Symptoms

2.     Receive an Individualised Exercise Plan

3.     Learn Techniques to Reduce Pain

4.     Build Long-Term Confidence

Physio isn’t just about treatment, it’s about learning which movements are safe, how to manage flare-ups, and how to stay active without fear.

📝 Finding Support in Swansea

If you’re living with arthritis and want to feel more comfortable, stronger, and more confident, combining self-care with guidance from our MSK physiotherapy clinic in Swansea can make a real difference. Even a few sessions can help you understand your body better and give you the tools you need to manage symptoms long term.