Knee Osteoarthritis in Preston: How Physiotherapy Can Help Manage Symptoms

Knee osteoarthritis is a common cause of activity-related joint pain and stiffness that can make everyday tasks such as walking around Preston, climbing stairs, or standing for longer periods more difficult. Therapeutic exercise tailored to your needs, alongside weight management if appropriate and practical advice, forms the core recommended approach for most people. Physiotherapy assessment helps determine the right starting point and progression.

At ActivLiving Physiotherapy in Preston we provide assessment and support for musculoskeletal conditions, including knee osteoarthritis, as part of our physiotherapy services in Preston. Suitability of any specific treatment always depends on an individual clinical assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.

What is knee osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis involves changes in the joint that can lead to pain, stiffness (often brief in the morning or after rest), and reduced function. Diagnosis is usually clinical in people aged 45 or over who have activity-related knee pain and limited morning stiffness. Imaging is not routinely required to confirm the diagnosis.

Symptoms vary. Some people notice gradual discomfort during walking or stairs; others experience flare-ups. Many continue to stay active with appropriate support. There is no single cure, and outcomes differ between individuals.

Core approaches recommended for osteoarthritis

Current UK guidance (NICE NG226) emphasises non-drug measures as the foundation of care. For all people with osteoarthritis, therapeutic exercise tailored to needs—such as local muscle strengthening and general aerobic fitness—should be offered. Supervised sessions may be considered. Weight management is recommended where a person is overweight, as excess weight increases load on the knee.

Manual therapy (for example mobilisation or soft-tissue techniques) may be considered for hip or knee osteoarthritis only alongside exercise; evidence does not support it used alone. Pharmacological options such as topical NSAIDs for the knee can support exercise but are not a substitute for it. Strong opioids and certain supplements are not routinely recommended.

Physiotherapists help people implement these core recommendations safely. An assessment reviews symptoms, function, strength, movement patterns, and goals so that exercise can be progressed without unnecessary setbacks.

How physiotherapy assessment and treatment typically work

An initial assessment usually includes discussion of your history, current activity levels, and what matters most to you (for example walking further in Preston or managing stairs). Physical examination looks at joint movement, muscle strength, balance, and walking pattern.

Treatment plans commonly include:

• Specific strengthening exercises for the quadriceps, hips, and surrounding muscles

• Aerobic activity guidance matched to your current capacity

• Advice on pacing, activity modification, and flare-up management

• Education on self-management

Progress is reviewed and adjusted. Some people benefit from additional options after assessment. These may include manual therapy used with exercise, or other interventions available at the clinic such as APOS® Therapy for suitable individuals with knee or hip osteoarthritis.

APOS® uses a specially calibrated footwear system intended to influence walking mechanics and provide neuromuscular input during everyday activity. Evidence includes studies showing improvements in pain and function measures for some people; however, comparative evidence against standard care is limited in places, and results vary. It is not suitable for everyone and is offered only after clinical evaluation.

Other clinic options (for example injection therapy when indicated) are discussed if relevant to the individual presentation and after appropriate assessment. Current prices for assessments and treatments are listed on the prices page.

What to expect and realistic outcomes

Many people notice improvements in strength, confidence, and day-to-day function with consistent therapeutic exercise over weeks to months. Pain levels can fluctuate; starting or progressing exercise may temporarily increase discomfort, which is usually manageable with guidance. There is no guaranteed timeline or percentage reduction in symptoms.

Self-management remains important long-term. Physiotherapy supports this rather than replacing personal effort. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, further review with your GP or specialist may be needed.

When to seek professional advice

Arrange a physiotherapy assessment if knee pain is limiting your activity, lasting more than a short period, or affecting sleep or work. No GP referral is required for private physiotherapy appointments.

Seek urgent medical help (NHS 111, GP, or 999/emergency department depending on severity) for:

• Sudden severe pain or swelling after injury

• Inability to bear weight

• Signs of infection (redness, heat, fever with a hot swollen joint)

• Neurological symptoms such as significant weakness or numbness

These are general indicators only; individual circumstances differ.

Practical steps you can take

Start with low-impact activity you can tolerate, such as walking or cycling, and build gradually. Strengthening exercises prescribed after assessment are more targeted than generic online programmes. Track what you can do rather than focusing only on pain levels.

Discuss any concerns about exercise with a clinician before beginning a new programme.

If you live in Preston or nearby areas of Lancashire and would like an assessment, you can book an assessment online or contact the clinic.

FAQs

Does exercise make knee osteoarthritis worse?

Starting or increasing exercise can temporarily increase discomfort. Guidance advises that long-term adherence usually benefits joints, reduces pain, and improves function when the programme is appropriately tailored. A physiotherapist can help you progress safely.

Is imaging needed to diagnose knee osteoarthritis?

In most cases of activity-related knee pain in people aged 45 or over with limited morning stiffness, diagnosis is clinical and imaging is not required to confirm osteoarthritis.

How does APOS® Therapy differ from standard physiotherapy exercises?

APOS® involves a calibrated footwear system used during walking as part of a personalised programme. Standard physiotherapy focuses primarily on therapeutic exercise, education, and other hands-on or advice-based approaches. Both require individual assessment; one does not replace the other for every person.

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You can book a private physiotherapy assessment directly.