Degenerative Changes is like the natural wear and tear that happens to our bodies as we age. Imagine a machine that’s been used for many years; its parts might not work as smoothly as they did when it was new. The same thing happens to our joints, bones, and other tissues.

For example, in osteoarthritis, the cartilage that helps our joints move smoothly starts to break down. This can cause the bones to rub against each other, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. In the spine, degenerative changes can mean the discs that act as cushions between the bones become thinner or less flexible, causing back pain.

These changes are common as we get older, but they can also happen sooner if we’ve had injuries or put a lot of strain on our bodies.

While these changes are often irreversible, treatments like physiotherapy and medications does help manage symptoms, reduce discomfort and improve quality of life

NOW HOW DOES PHYSIOTHERAPY HELPS TO TREAT DEGENERATIVE CHANGES?

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing degenerative changes by helping to reduce pain, improve mobility, and maintain or even enhance function in affected areas. Here’s how physiotherapy can help:

1. PAIN RELIEF - Physiotherapists use various techniques, like electrical stimulation, heat/cold therapy, mobilisation, to relieve pain caused by degenerative changes. These treatments can reduce inflammation and help ease discomfort.

2. STRENGTHENING MUSCLES - Strong muscles can better support joints and the spine, reducing stress on these areas. Physiotherapists design exercises to strengthen the muscles around the affected joints or spine, which can alleviate some of the pain and make movement easier.

3. IMPROVING FLEXIBILITY and RANGE Of MOTION - Degenerative changes can cause stiffness, making it hard to move. Stretching exercises and other techniques used in physiotherapy can help improve flexibility and increase the range of motion in affected areas, making daily activities easier.

4. POSTURE AND BODY MECHANICS - Poor posture and body mechanics can worsen degenerative changes, especially in the spine. Physiotherapists teach proper posture and ways to move that protect the joints and spine, reducing further wear and tear.

5. EDUCATION AND SELF-MANAGEMENT - Physiotherapists educate patients about their condition and how to manage it at home. They provide guidance on exercises, lifestyle changes, and pain management strategies that can be done outside of therapy sessions.

6. PREVENTING FURTHER DETERIORATION - Regular physiotherapy can help slow the progression of degenerative changes

Conclusion:

Degenerative changes, such as osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease, occur as our joints, bones, and tissues naturally wear down with age or due to strain. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Physiotherapy helps manage these conditions by relieving pain, strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and teaching proper posture and body mechanics. Through personalized treatment plans, it helps slow the progression of these changes, allowing individuals to maintain mobility and improve their quality of life.