Can physiotherapy help with arthritis? What you need to know
Motion is lotion when it comes to arthritis
Can physiotherapy help with arthritis? What you need to know
If you’re living with arthritis, you’ve likely been told that nothing can be done except taking painkillers or waiting it out. But that’s not the full story.
At Functional Movement Physio in Liverpool, we regularly work with clients who have arthritis - and physiotherapy plays a huge role in helping them move better, feel stronger, and manage pain without relying on medication alone.
In this blog, we’ll break down how physio can help with arthritis, what to expect in a session, and why early action makes a big difference.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. There are different types, but the most common include:
Osteoarthritis: wear and tear over time, usually affecting knees, hips, hands or spine
Rheumatoid arthritis: an autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation
Post-traumatic arthritis: joint damage following an injury
No matter the type, arthritis can impact your mobility, quality of life, and ability to stay active.
So, can physiotherapy actually help?
Yes—physiotherapy is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for arthritis. It’s about more than just pain relief. Physio helps you improve how your joints move, reduce stiffness, and build strength around painful joints.
Here’s how it works:
Targeted exercises to improve mobility and reduce stiffness
Strength training to support weakened or unstable joints
Hands-on therapy to relieve muscle tension and improve movement
Posture and movement advice to take pressure off sore joints
Education so you know how to manage flare-ups and stay active safely
At Functional Movement Physio, we tailor every plan to your specific needs - whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing arthritis long-term.
When should you see a physio for arthritis?
You don’t need to wait until things get “bad enough” to see a physio. In fact, the earlier you start moving, the better your long-term outcome tends to be.
Physiotherapy is a good idea if:
You’re experiencing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
Your joints feel weak or unstable
You’ve been diagnosed with arthritis and want to stay active
You’re avoiding movement because of pain
Everyday tasks are becoming harder
It’s also helpful before and after joint surgery to build strength and support recovery.
What results can you expect?
Many clients are surprised by how much movement improves with just a few weeks of physio. While physiotherapy won’t “cure” arthritis, it reduces pain, improves joint control, and builds confidence in your body again.
Some people find they can reduce or stop pain medication. Others are able to return to walking, gardening, working, or playing with their kids - without pain slowing them down.
Final thoughts
Arthritis doesn’t mean you have to give up the things you love. With the right support, you can move better, hurt less, and stay independent for longer.
Need help managing arthritis? Book an appointment with Functional Movement Physio in Liverpool. We’re here to get you moving with less pain and more confidence.
