Arthritis Help | Physio & Sports Therapy

Movement matters for arthritic joints

Many people with arthritis are told to rest or avoid activity. For osteoarthritis in particular, staying active and building strength is widely recommended as part of managing it.

We work alongside your GP's care. Gentle hands-on treatment can help with stiffness and muscle tension, and a progressive strength programme helps you build confidence and capacity in your joints.

Our physiotherapists and sports therapists will create a plan that fits your lifestyle and goals, whether that's walking further, getting back in the garden or returning to the gym.

Exercise programmes suited to your joints

Gentle joint mobilisation and soft tissue work

Small-group strength classes to keep you going

Advice on pacing and managing flare-ups

Works alongside your GP's care

No GP referral needed to book

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Types of arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA)

The most common form, involving gradual changes in the joint cartilage. It often affects the knees, hips, spine and hands. OA pain often eases with gentle movement, which is why exercise is a key part of managing it.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

An autoimmune condition that needs diagnosis and treatment from your GP and a rheumatology team. We don't treat rheumatoid arthritis itself, but once it's under medical care, some people find guided exercise helps them stay active.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Linked to the skin condition psoriasis, causing joint pain, stiffness and swelling. It should be managed by your GP or rheumatology team, and guided exercise can sit alongside that care.

Gout

Caused by a build-up of uric acid crystals in a joint, often the big toe. Flares are very painful and need medical care from your GP. Between flares, staying active and strong is part of a healthy routine.

When to see a doctor first

Please contact your GP, call NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency, rather than booking with us, if you have:

A hot, red, swollen joint, especially with a fever: seek urgent medical help

Sudden, severe pain and swelling in a joint: see your GP promptly

Several joints that are swollen and stiff, especially first thing in the morning: see your GP

Joint pain with unexplained weight loss, a rash or feeling generally unwell: see your GP

Arthritis questions answered

Can exercise help arthritis?

For osteoarthritis, regular, well-dosed exercise is a core part of standard advice. Many people find it helps with pain, stiffness and everyday function. We'll build a programme that suits your joints and your goals.

Will exercise make my arthritis worse?

We work within what your joints can comfortably handle and progress gradually. Some soreness after new exercise is normal and usually settles. If you have a flare, we adjust the plan.

Can you help with rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis should be diagnosed and managed by your GP and rheumatology team. If your condition is under medical care, we can help you build strength and stay active alongside their advice.

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You don't need a referral to book with our physiotherapists or sports therapists. If you have any of the warning signs listed on this page, please see your GP or seek urgent medical help first.

"Highly recommend for running-related issues. Jess put together a clear plan to get me ready for my marathon, and her communication was excellent throughout. Thank you!"

"Referred after an increasingly painful knee was impacting on my exercise. Hannah was very thorough in her investigation and analysis of the problem. I noticed a steady but sustained improvement following the recommended exercises over the first week. The exercises were subsequently changed up and the improvement sustained over the next two weeks. What definitely helped was the link between the Injury Active Clinic and the Barn. Hannah provided a briefing for the coaches, ensuring the gym sessions reinforced the recommended physio programme."

"Jess was so lovely and supportive throughout my time with her. She really helped build my confidence and get me back to doing the sports I love! I'm so grateful for all her help and would highly recommend :)"

Book a Pain & Movement Assessment

Rather than resting and hoping it settles, get it looked at. Your assessment gives you a clear explanation of what we think is going on, a plan, and a way to measure your progress.

Book an Assessment

Assessment

A thorough look at your history, how you move and what aggravates it, so we understand what's driving your symptoms.

Your Plan

A clear plan with realistic goals and the right mix of hands-on care and exercise for you.

Build Back Up

Progressive strength and movement work so you can get back to full activity with confidence.

Arthritis &
Joint Pain

Movement matters for arthritic joints