Explore symptoms, assessment and rehabilitation considerations for arthritis.
Arthritis describes a group of joint conditions that can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and difficulty moving. Care depends on the diagnosis, the joints affected and your daily needs. Exercise can support mobility, but some types also need specialist medical treatment.
Common arthritis types and symptoms
The NHS arthritis overview explains why different joint conditions need different care. Common types include:
- Osteoarthritis: commonly affects knees, hips and other joints.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: an inflammatory condition that often affects small joints in the hands and feet.
- Psoriatic arthritis: joint symptoms may occur alongside psoriasis.
- Gout: can cause sudden pain in a hot, swollen joint, often the big toe.
These descriptions cannot establish a diagnosis. Arrange a medical assessment for unexplained joint pain, swelling or stiffness that does not settle. Describe which joints are affected, how symptoms started and how they change through the day.
When joint pain needs urgent medical assessment
Seek urgent assessment for sudden severe joint pain, especially with swelling, a hot or discoloured joint, or difficulty moving it. Fever or feeling unwell makes this especially concerning, but an infection can occur without fever. Do not assume a new hot, swollen joint is your usual arthritis flare.
The NHS septic arthritis guidance explains why a possible joint infection needs prompt medical treatment. Exercises should not delay that assessment.
Exercise and physiotherapy for osteoarthritis
For diagnosed osteoarthritis, NICE recommends exercise tailored to the person, including muscle strengthening and general aerobic fitness. A physiotherapist can help choose activities that fit the affected joint and your goals.
Discuss practical tasks such as getting up from a chair, using stairs or walking outdoors. Agree on a starting level, how to build activity and when to review the plan. Some discomfort can occur when exercise begins; ask your clinician how to judge your response and adapt the routine.
For people with osteoarthritis who also live with overweight or obesity, NICE recommends support with weight management to help pain and function. Weight loss advice is not a universal requirement for everyone with arthritis.
Why inflammatory arthritis also needs medical care
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment can include disease-modifying medicines that reduce the risk of joint damage. Physiotherapy supports strength, fitness and mobility alongside that care. A home exercise programme does not replace medicines or rheumatology follow-up.
The NHS rheumatoid arthritis treatment guide distinguishes medical treatment from supportive therapies. If symptoms change, speak to your treating team about the plan.
Planning everyday arthritis support
Bring specific difficulties to your consultation: dressing, cooking, opening jars, walking or working. Occupational therapy can help with everyday tasks and joint protection, while physiotherapy can help with movement and exercise choices.
There is no strong evidence that a particular dietary change improves rheumatoid arthritis. A balanced diet supports overall health; discuss supplements or major dietary changes with your medical team.
Our arthritis physiotherapy guide explains assessment, rehabilitation support and what to prepare for a consultation alongside your existing care.
Common questions about arthritis care
Can physiotherapy cure arthritis?
It can support movement and daily function, but it does not cure arthritis. Treatment needs depend on the diagnosed condition.
Should every arthritis flare be managed with the same exercises?
No. Tell your clinician about changes in symptoms so activity can be adapted. A new hot, swollen joint needs assessment before you treat it as a familiar flare.
Sources and further reading
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