The truth about joint pain
Osteoarthritis can’t be cured, but it can be managed and exercise and diet are key, writes Abi Jackson
Osteoarthritis is often considered a problem for the elderly, but the most common form of joint disease can strike younger age-groups too. “Most people think arthritis is an inevitable part of ageing, but in actual fact, it can affect anyone at any age,” says Dr Tom Margham, a GP and spokesperson for the charity Arthritis Research UK. “Regardless of age, the condition can have a significant impact on everyday life.”
When Ruby James, 55, was diagnosed with osteoarthritis nine years ago she recalls people being shocked at the news. “The most common reaction I get when I tell people about my condition is, ‘You’re too young to have that’. When I was first diagnosed, I thought the same,” she says.
In fact, osteoarthritis is relatively common, affecting more than eight million people in the UK. And while the majority will be older, it’s not uncommon for people to develop the condition in their 40s, and sometimes even younger.
Unlike joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease – meaning the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells – osteoarthritis is associated with ‘wear and tear’. In other words, joint damage that develops over time.
“We still don’t know exactly why some people get osteoarthritis at a younger age. [But] we know there are many factors that can contribute to the development of the condition, including genetics, weight and joint injury,” says Dr Margham.
For Ruby, it started with pain in her hip, brought on by exercise, which resulted in having to be carried into A&E by her partner.
After being examined and given an MRI scan, she was told she’d developed osteoarthritis in the joint. “My consultant at the time suggested physio, which helped, along with medication. I was told then that there was no cure, and eventually I may have to have a hip replacement.”
Of course, wear and tear injuries can be common, and joint pain is something many people will experience at certain points. But Dr Margham says it’s important to get any ongoing or worsening joint pain checked out properly – especially if accompanied by inflammation and swelling. And if you do have osteoarthritis, getting the right advice means you’ll be able to start managing the condition in the best possible way.
“Osteoarthritis can be very severe, and the pain it causes can make everyday tasks, such as getting dressed and cooking, difficult,” says Dr Margham – but there are many things you can do. “You can lose weight, if you are overweight, remain active, and try simple treatments alongside medication, such as cold and heat packs.”
Keeping active is something Ruby, who lives in London and runs her own business, is deeply passionate about – as not only does she enjoy it, but it plays a central role in managing her arthritis.
After another bad flare-up in 2010, she knew she had to take control of the situation. “I’d read that yoga was good, so joined a beginners’ class. This made it worse for me, but the instructor suggested I take a look at Pilates, which I did, although there are some movements and positions I just cannot do,” Ruby recalls.
Over time, and with advice from her physio, she’s worked out which exercises work, and which are best avoided. Now, alongside eating healthily – with lots of oily fish and iron-rich veg – plus meditation, and anti-inflammatory gels and painkillers when she needs them, it’s part of her everyday routine. “If I didn’t keep active, I think my condition would become more of a problem,” she says.
Exercise can be a tricky issue for anybody with joint problems – when you’re stiff and in pain, sometimes getting up and moving feels like the last thing you should be doing. But remaining active is actually very important.
For Ruby, it’s all about finding balance and listening to her body. “I go to the gym at least three times a week, and mostly do cardio, with resistance weights to maintain and improve my strength. I don’t think people would be able to tell I have the condition that I have, but if you watched me closely, you’d see I have little routines that I’ve developed to work around the pain.
“My health means a lot to me and being active is so important, not just for my body but for my wellbeing.”
Ruby has now teamed up with antiinflammatory gel brand Voltarol, plus Arthritis Research UK, to produce a series of videos about living with osteoarthritis, and exercises designed to help people with joint pain (remember to check with your doctor before embarking on any new exercise programme). n
“I have little routines that I’ve developed to work around the pain”
To find out more, visit www. arthritisresearchuk.org/ everyday exercises