Other physical treatments
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Walking aids
If you have OA of a hip or knee, when walking try using a cane (walking stick). Hold it in the hand on the opposite side of the body to the affected joint. This takes some pressure off the affected joint and helps to ease symptoms in some cases.
Physiotherapy
Sometimes advice or treatment from a physiotherapist is helpful. For example:
- For advice on which exercises to do to strengthen the muscles above the knee (quadriceps) if you have OA of the knee. Strengthening the 'quads' has been shown to improve symptoms caused by OA of the knee.
- For advice on how to keep active and fit.
- For advice on shoes insoles, knee braces, taping to the knee, and how to use walking aids properly (to make sure you have one of the correct height).
Occupational therapy
May help if you need aids or modifications to your home to cope with disability caused by OA.
Other therapies
Some people have found that TENS machines help to ease pain from OA. A TENS machine (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) delivers small electrical pulses to the body via electrodes placed on the skin. Acupuncture may also help to ease symptoms in some cases.
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