Osteoarthritis: Are You Making It Worse by Exercising?

If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, you may have been told two completely opposite things:

“Don’t overdo it.”

“Keep moving.”

So which is correct?

The short answer is – movement is one of the most effective ways to manage osteoarthritis. But it needs to be the right type of movement.

At Village Physio, we provide home osteoarthritis physiotherapy across South Yorkshire. One of the most common concerns we hear is:

“Am I making it worse by exercising?”

Let’s break it down.

Why Complete Rest Can Make Osteoarthritis Worse

When a joint is painful, resting feels logical.

But prolonged rest can lead to:

• Increased stiffness

• Muscle weakness

• Reduced joint support

• Worse balance

• Greater strain when you do move

Weak muscles place more pressure on the joint, not less.

Why Exercise Helps Osteoarthritis

Appropriate exercise can:

• Strengthen muscles around the joint

• Reduce pressure through the joint

• Improve flexibility

• Reduce stiffness

• Improve confidence walking

• Reduce falls risk

Stronger muscles act as shock absorbers.

What Type of Exercise Is Best?

The right exercises depend on the joint affected.

For knee or hip osteoarthritis, helpful exercises often include:

• Gentle strengthening

• Sit-to-stand practice

• Supported balance work

• Controlled walking

• Targeted hip and glute exercises

The key is gradual progression – not pushing through severe pain.

When Should You Seek Physiotherapy?

You may benefit from physiotherapy if:

• Discomfort is limiting daily activities

• You feel weaker or less steady

• You are avoiding movement due to fear

• Walking pattern has changed

• You are considering surgery

Home physiotherapy is particularly helpful if stairs, mobility or confidence are becoming difficult.

Osteoarthritis Physiotherapy in South Yorkshire

Village Physio provides one-hour home visits across:

• Rotherham

• Sheffield

• Doncaster

• Barnsley

If you’re unsure which movements are safe, or whether exercise is helping or aggravating symptoms, getting individual guidance can make a significant difference to recovery and confidence.