Just Diagnosed with Osteoarthritis? Let’s Clear a Few Things Up.
So, you’ve been told you have Osteoarthritis (OA).
Cue the mental spiral: Does this mean I’m getting old? Will I need surgery? Should I stop moving?
Let’s hit pause right there, and get some facts straight. Because OA is more common than you think, less doom-and-gloom than it sounds, and very often manageable without going under the knife.
1. OA Isn’t Just a “Getting Older” Thing
Yes, age can play a role. But Osteoarthritis doesn’t just magically appear when you hit a certain birthday.
It’s influenced by a whole combo meal of factors: previous injuries, biomechanics, lifestyle, and yes – sometimes, genetics.
Bottom line? You’re not “falling apart.” You’re not “too young” to have OA. You’re not broken.
2. Movement is One of the Best Things You Can Do
We get it. When something hurts, your instinct is to stop moving it.
But here’s the kicker: motion is lotion.
Safe, guided movement may help to lubricate your joints, strengthen muscles, reduce stiffness, and even dial down pain signals.
In fact, exercise is one of the most evidence-based ways to manage OA symptoms—and it doesn’t have to mean HIIT bootcamps or squatting your bodyweight. It can be gentle, doable, and tailored to you.
3. Pain ≠ Damage
Here’s a truthbomb 💥: pain is not always a reliable indicator of what’s happening structurally.
You can have pain with little visible damage on scans. You can have no pain with significant changes on x-rays.
Pain is complex. It’s influenced by your brain, stress levels, emotions, sleep, and more.
That doesn’t mean your pain isn’t real. It means there’s more to the picture—and more we can do to support it.
4. There Is Hope – Lots of It
Osteoarthritis doesn’t have to mean giving up your favourite activities.
With the right support (think: movement, education, load management, lifestyle shifts), many people see improvements in their symptoms and overall quality of life.
No, it won’t reverse overnight. But it can get better.
5. Surgery Isn’t Always the Answer
Let’s be real – surgery might sometimes be necessary. But it’s not the default.
In fact, many people find that non-surgical interventions (like targeted rehab, manual therapy, education, and strength work) give them the results they were hoping for – without the recovery time or risks.
TLDR? You’re Not Alone—And You Have Options.
If you’ve just been diagnosed with OA and you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, know this:
There’s help.
There’s hope.
And there are health professionals (like Osteopaths 👋) who are trained to support you, educate you, and walk alongside you as you manage your symptoms.
✨ Ready to take the first step? Book a consult with your Osteopath at Monty Osteo to explore your options—movement included.
