Finding Relief from Osteoarthritis: How Manual Therapy Helped Me Move Freely Again
Osteoarthritis (OA ) of the knee and the hip which can make everyday movement become challenging. However manual therapy and exercises can offer non-invasive way to mange hip and knee OA.
Let me walk you through what I’ve learnet over the years while treating patients in my Bethesda Rugby Club clinic ( which is situated, between Bangor and Tryfan mountain near Snowdon , North Wales, Gwynedd), and how manual therapy could help you manage your arthritis symptoms more effectively.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and typically affects the joints—especially the knees, hips, hands, and spine. It’s caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of your bones. As cartilage wears away, joints can become painful, swollen, and stiff.
How Manual Therapy Helped Me (And Could Help You Too)
Here’s how manual therapy made a real difference in my osteoarthritis journey—and why it might work for you as well:
1. Pain Relief That Feels Natural
Manual therapy helped ease my joint pain without relying solely on medication. Techniques like joint mobilization and manipulation improved how my joints moved, boosted circulation, and released feel-good endorphins—my body’s natural painkillers.
2. More Flexibility and Less Stiffness
One of the most frustrating symptoms of osteoarthritis is stiffness. Through gentle stretching and joint mobilization, I regained a better range of motion. It’s such a relief to move without feeling like my joints are locked up.
3. Relaxed Muscles, Better Movement
Osteoarthritis can cause your muscles to tense up or become imbalanced. Manual therapy, especially soft tissue work and massage, helped release those tight spots and reduced muscle spasms—allowing me to move more freely and comfortably.
4. Improved Joint Stability
I also noticed that over time, manual therapy helped stabilize my joints. By addressing muscle imbalances and improving strength in the surrounding tissues, I felt more supported during movement and less prone to flare-ups.
5. Learning to Manage It Myself
One of the best parts? My therapist didn’t just treat me—she taught me. I learned exercises, posture tips, and lifestyle changes that empowered me to manage my osteoarthritis on my own. That sense of control has been life-changing.
A Holistic Approach is Key
While manual therapy has been incredibly beneficial, it’s not a cure. Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, and hands-on treatment works best when combined with other strategies—like exercise, a healthy diet, pain management, and using assistive tools when needed.
Thinking About Manual Therapy for Osteoarthritis?
If you’re considering manual therapy for osteoarthritis, talk to a qualified healthcare provider. They can assess your condition and recommend a tailored plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Managing osteoarthritis is a journey, but with the right support, it’s one you don’t have to walk alone.
Some possible exercise videos
( These exercises seem simple and safe to me if done according to the instructions. However this is at the user`s own risk)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhUm92R4zZA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEM39Xty9xY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thA83oOmgsM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3imMU8D1-k4
Reference list
Feng, T., Wang, X., Jin, Z., Qin, X., Sun, C., Qi, B., Zhang, Y., Zhu, L. and Wei, X. (2023). Effectiveness and safety of manual therapy for knee osteoarthritis: An overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Frontiers in Public Health, [online] 11, p.1081238. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1081238.
NICE (2022). Recommendations | Osteoarthritis in over 16s: diagnosis and management | Guidance | NICE. [online] www.nice.org.uk. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng226/chapter/Recommendations#non-pharmacological-management.
Pakkir Mohamed, S.H., Albalawi, H.F., Nambi, G., Shalabi, K.M. and Albalawi, M.O. (2025). Effectiveness of manual therapy vs conventional physical therapy with neuromuscular training in the management of knee osteoarthritis: A randomized clinical controlled trial. International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, [online] 58(58), p.100787. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijosm.2025.100787.
Tsokanos, A., Livieratou, E., Billis, E., Tsekoura, M., Tatsios, P., Tsepis, E. and Fousekis, K. (2021). The Efficacy of Manual Therapy in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: a Systematic Review. Medicina, [online] 57(7), p.696. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina57070696.
Zhu, B., Ba, H., Kong, L., Fu, Y., Ren, J., Zhu, Q. and Fang, M. (2024). The effects of manual therapy in pain and safety of patients with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic revie