Physiotherapists in Swindon treat many different conditions including the issues profiled below.

Knee Arthritis

The knee is a large synovial joint formed between the large expanded end of the femur (thigh bone) and the top of the tibia or shin bone. The ends of the bones are covered with articular cartilage, a slippery and firm material which allows the almost friction free movement which our joints can provide even if there is a body weight load on them. On an x-ray this shows up as a dark space between the bony surfaces, known as the joint space. In time or after injury this cartilage can change as part of the process of osteoarthritis, although there is a significant genetic component which influences whether we get osteoarthritis or not.

Changes occur both in the cartilage and the bone of the joint during the osteoarthritic process and the process may begin with a softening of the cartilage from its firm, hard surfaces. Next, fissures can develop until the thickness of the cartilage wears down and in severe cases the underlying bone may be exposed, causing a bone on bone crunching and pain. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, loss of joint movement, joint deformity such as knock knee or bow leg and difficulties with gait.

Performing Neck Exercises

Neck exercises should be performed steadily and slowly, attempting to get the end of the available range each time and pushing that bit further to try and increase the movement for a few seconds. Sitting or standing are the obvious starting positions but high levels of pain may mean that lying down is best for some people, or while they are having a shower due to the warmth. Most people perform the individual movements much too quickly and it is more useful to take up to five seconds for the complete movement in either direction.

Patients can often start with five movements performed three or four times per day, although lower number of repetitions or times per day may be necessary due to some pain problems. Doing smaller movements may also be necessary if pushing into the pain is not helpful, after which the movements can increase in size as the problem eases. Rolling the neck right around should be avoided as this can be aggravating to the neck joints and if exercises cause dizziness or symptoms in the hands they should be stopped and advice taken as to which exercises would suit the condition best.