What is arthritis? on the Gold Coast — this guide from Ace Health Centre walks you through what matters most: when to seek help, what treatment looks like, and what to expect from your recovery. Call (07) 5572 6222 to book.
How Ace Health Centre Approaches What is arthritis?
Our team treats What is arthritis? as a structured pathway, not a one-off appointment. First, we work with you to confirm the diagnosis and rule out anything that needs imaging or a specialist referral. Next, we map out a phase-by-phase plan: settling the acute issue, restoring strength and range of motion, and progressing back to your normal life or sport. Furthermore, we coordinate care across podiatry, physiotherapy, dietetics and exercise physiology where the case calls for it, so you are not bouncing between separate clinics. As a result, you understand exactly what is happening, why it is happening, and what to do about it at every stage of treatment.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis describes the “wear and tear” joints face throughout their life span. During this process, cartilage get worn away and is replaced with bone to help strengthen the joint. In turn, this causes joint spaces to get too narrow and irritated. There are many types depending on how the wear and tear occurs; either naturally throughout the life span and due to weaknesses or malfunctioning immune responses causing the body to attack its own joints.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the damage to the joint surfaces as a result of physical load (day-to-day activities). This is usually caused when the load out-weights the strength of the surrounding muscles, thus the joint takes the load. What results is thinning/damage of cartilage (protects joint surfaces) and deposits of bone being placed where the thinning occurs over time. This process can take a while but will create permeant joint changes that are irreversible.
Symptoms of arthritis
Symptoms vary depending on the severity and can also come and go depending on life’s demands. Lot of people can even have arthritis underlying and don’t get symptoms until the joints are placed under demand or an injury occurs in a similar area.
This is due to the body becoming hyperaware and protective of arthritis to prevent further wear and tear. Thus the muscle spasms surrounding ‘worn’ joints to prevent further movement and thus limit further “wear and tear”. This means that massage is a very useful technique when it comes to the treatment OA. Relaxing the surrounding muscles will significantly reduce pain in most cases.
OA most commonly occurs in the shoulders, lower back hips and knees as these joints are usually placed under the highest loads due to being weight-bearing joints.
There are many different treatments available for arthritis. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss options.
Blog by Christian Monks
What to Expect From What is arthritis? at Ace Health Centre
Patients who book What is arthritis? with our team get a clinic-grade assessment, a clear plain-language plan, and a structured progression rather than a one-off appointment. Furthermore, we coordinate care across podiatry, physiotherapy, dietetics and exercise physiology where relevant, so you are not bouncing between clinics. Authoritative information on this topic is also available from Healthdirect Australia if you would like to read further before booking. As a result, you walk in informed and walk out with a plan you understand.
For more on what we do, see our main service page.
Frequently Asked Questions About What is arthritis?
Do I need a referral? No referral is needed for physiotherapy in private practice. With a GP Chronic Disease Management plan you may be eligible for bulk-billed sessions.
Is physiotherapy covered by health funds? Most private health extras with physio cover offer a rebate. We process HICAPS on the spot, so you walk out knowing your gap.
How many sessions will I need? Acute issues usually settle in 4-6 sessions. Longer-standing conditions may need a 6-12 week structured program. Your physio will give a clear plan at the first assessment.
Book Your What is arthritis? Appointment
Ready to get started? Call (07) 5572 6222 or book online. In addition, new patients can use our no-gap initial consult — straightforward, no surprises.
