Osteoarthritis in sport

Osteoarthritis in sport and how we might be able to treat it

About osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a joint condition that occurs when the cartilage surfaces of a joint, and the bone underlying it, begin to breakdown.

Whilst all joints will tend to ‘wear’ this way through advancing age, injuries accrued through sport can sometimes accelerate this process.

Need to know

  • Symptoms of osteoarthritis in sport icon plus

    Osteoarthritis in our joints can bring out stiffness and swelling in the joints, pain after exercise (sometimes even a day or two later), and when severe, it can cause sport to be very painful. Sometimes it becomes difficult to perform a movement well in sport, and lead to a loss of performance.
  • Screening and diagnosis icon plus

    Your consultant will assess you carefully and examine you, which may include watching you move, and accessing any limitations or muscle weakness. You may need to undergo diagnostic imaging such as an X-Ray or MRI scan.
  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    The good news is, movement and strength building has been shown to beneficial in managing the symptoms of osteoarthritis, although you may be advised on modifiying you exercise. Physiotherapy and osteopathy are frequently recommended, and sometimes a joint injection (such as a guided corticosteroid injection) may be advised to help reduce swelling an assist with rehabilitation. You will be advised on the best way to return to your sport. In very severe cases which are not progressing with conservative treatment, surgery may be recommend (e.g. keyhole or joint replacement surgery).

Our specialist consultants

We're proud to work with leading orthopaedic experts specialising in managing and treating sports injuries, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our locations

From complex orthopaedic surgery to diagnostic tests and scan, we provide exceptional medical and physiotherapy care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Book an appointment

Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

Call us today

020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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