There are a number of conditions that can lead to joint pain and stiffness which is usually characterized by a dull, aching sensation. The most common pathology that affects the joints is arthritis, although it is not uncommon to get joint stiffness following an acute injury with severe muscle spasm/guarding or after prolonged periods of immobility such as being in a cast or moon boot.

The pain and stiffness results in a gradual loss of flexibility of a joint, or a loss of range of motion. These limitations can create a number of functional limitations to every day tasks and can deter people from doing exercise due to the pain, stiffness or inflammation.

How we can help?

Once the joint in question is thoroughly assessed, we will be able to determine the most likely cause of your symptoms. A multidisciplinary approach often delivers great relief for these conditions.

Treatment may include:

• Manual joint mobilizations – a technique in which your physiotherapist will passively mobilize and move your joints with different grades of pressure into the limited range

• Appropriate range of motion exercises

• Strengthening and stretching programs

• Acupuncture

• Deep tissue massage