Osteoarthritis Specialists: Treatment in Brisbane

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide, most often older adults. As the damage to the bones and joints is typically irreversible, it's important to promptly see a a health professional or specialist if you're experiencing joint pain, stiffness, discomfort or are worried about developing osteoarthritis

Introduction to Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis (more so than rheumatoid arthritis) and is a leading cause of joint pain and disability worldwide. This condition develops when the cartilage - the tissue covering and cushioning the ends of bones in a joint - gradually wears away. As the cartilage wears away, bones can rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and reduced motion in the joint. Bony spurs (abnormal bone growths) can also develop at the edges of affected joints, contributing to pain and stiffness.

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but it most commonly impacts the knees, hips, ankles spine, and finger (hand) joints. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and are usually worst with activity. If you are experiencing these symptoms, consulting osteoarthritis specialists can help you manage the condition effectively.

Common causes of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis occurs through the wearing out of the cartilage covering the bone ends in a joint. Specialists emphasise that developing OA is influenced by several risk factors, including joint diseases, previous joint injuries, and prolonged periods of joint strain. Understanding these factors can help in early identification and management of osteoarthritis. Here are some common causes, according to research:

Brisbane clinic locations & opening hours

We provide Osteoarthritis treatment at both of our convenient Brisbane locations - in the CBD and Newmarket. Find clinic details and opening hours below:

How we diagnose, assess and treat Osteoarthritis

Here at The Feet People, our podiatrits start with a detailed discussion of your medical history, including previous knee injuries, daily activities, and any risk factors that may contribute to joint changes. We then perform a thorough physical examination, assessing alignment, joint loading, strength, and movement patterns. A focused physical exam helps us identify signs such as swelling, tenderness, restricted movement, or altered walking mechanics.

In some cases, medical imaging (x-ray, CT or MRI) or referral for blood tests may be recommended to rule out other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, particularly if there are unusual patterns or other symptoms present. An early diagnosis allows us to intervene sooner and slow progression before long-term damage develops. Based on your assessment findings, we will create a personalised treatment plan. This plan may include lifestyle modifications, physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve joint mobility, medications to reduce pain and inflammation, or, in some cases, surgical options. We often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as orthopaedic surgeons and occupational therapists, to ensure comprehensive care and the best possible outcomes for each patient.

Role of an Osteoarthritis Specialist

Being an osteoarthritis specialist means focusing on identifying exactly how the changes to the affected joints are impacting your movement and function, not just where the pain is felt. We assess how forces travel through the body, particularly through the knee joint, feet, and lower limbs, and how movement patterns may be contributing to pain.

Our role is to guide you with evidence-based care, education, and long-term strategies that reduce flare-ups and help you stay active safely.

Osteoarthritis treatment options we provide

Your care plan is always individualised because your treatment depends entirely on which affected joint is involved, your lifestyle, medical history, and the severity of your symptoms. Here at The Feet People, we focus on conservative, evidence-based care aimed at long-term function and comfort.

Treatment options we may recommend include:

• MLS laser therapy to help reduce pain by decreasing inflammation and promoting tissue healing at a cellular level
• Dry needling if tightness in the surrounding soft tissues and muscles are contributing to your symptoms
• Mobilisation to mobilise the joints and bones of the foot and ankle to facilitate restoration of movement
• Custom foot orthotics to improve joint alignment, reduce joint load, and support optimal movement
• Targeted exercise program design to improve mobility, support physical activity, and protect the knee joint from excessive stress
• Strengthening strategies to improve muscle strength and joint stability
• Advice around lifestyle modifications that reduce flare-ups and daily strain
• Education and guidance for effective pain management strategies
• Supportive footwear advice and, where appropriate, assistive devices to reduce joint stress during daily activities
• Other treatments that will be discussed during your appointment

These therapies can be helpful for any joints in the lower limbs. We work with a lot of people experiencing both advanced knee arthritis and early knee osteoarthritis, where these approaches can significantly minimise pain and improve confidence with movement.

Surgical Treatment for Osteoarthritis

Surgery is generally considered only after conservative (non-invasive) care has been fully explored. In severe cases, options may include corticosteroid injections, steroid injections, or joint replacement surgery.

When severe pain and functional limitation persist despite treatment, surgery performed under specialist care may be recommended. We can help guide referrals and support you before and after surgical decisions if needed.

Surgical options are tailored to the location and severity of the affected joint. Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to remove loose fragments of cartilage or bone spurs, helping to alleviate pain and improve joint function. In cases of advanced joint damage, joint replacement surgery may be performed, where the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial implant to restore movement and relieve pain. Another option, osteotomy, involves realigning the bones to shift weight away from the damaged area of the joint. The choice of surgery depends on factors such as the specific joint involved, the degree of cartilage loss, and your overall health.

Benefits of Treatment

With the right management approach, many people experience:

• Reduced pain and stiffness
  
• Improved movement and confidence
  
• Better tolerance for daily activities
  
• Slower disease progression
  
• Improved quality of life and independence
  

Early and effective management also helps prevent further joint damage and lowers the risk of complications such as joint deformity or loss of function. By improving your ability to move and participate in daily activities, treatment can greatly enhance your overall quality of life.

Why do we recommend early treatment of Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, meaning symptoms can worsen over time if left unmanaged. Without a physical examination and intervention, cartilage thinning can reduce the joint space, increase joint inflammation, and lead to persistent chronic pain.

Early treatment helps protect remaining cartilage, reduce stress on vulnerable joints, and maintain mobility. Acting early may prevent progression to severe osteoarthritis, where daily tasks become difficult and pain becomes more persistent.

What to Expect During Your Osteoarthritis Treatment Journey

Your journey begins with a detailed assessment and a clear explanation of what’s happening in your joint. We work with you to create realistic goals, adjust your care as symptoms change, and support you through each stage of treatment. As your symptoms improve, we focus on maintaining joint health, protecting mobility, and helping you stay active with confidence and comfort.

You may need to try several treatments to find the best approach for managing your symptoms and improving joint function. Regular follow-up appointments will help monitor your progress and allow your specialist to adjust your treatment plan as needed. Patience and persistence are important, as it can take time to find the most effective combination of therapies. With ongoing support and a commitment to your treatment plan, you can manage osteoarthritis, reduce pain, and enjoy a better quality of life.

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