Osteoarthritis Towcester
If you've been told your joints are worn out and there's nothing to be done — you haven't been told the whole truth.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis in the UK, affecting millions of people — particularly those over 50. It involves changes to the cartilage within joints, often accompanied by bony changes, stiffness and pain. It most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands and spine.
A diagnosis of osteoarthritis can feel frightening and final. It doesn't have to be either.
What you've probably been told
Most people with osteoarthritis are told their cartilage is wearing away, the joint is degenerating, and they need to protect it. They're advised to rest, avoid impact, and told that surgery may be needed eventually. Some are offered painkillers, anti-inflammatories or steroid injections.
This approach manages symptoms temporarily. But it does not address the most powerful intervention available — and often makes things worse by encouraging inactivity.
What the evidence actually says
Exercise is the single most evidence-based treatment for osteoarthritis. Specifically progressive strength training. This is not a fringe view — it is the consensus recommendation of NICE (the UK's clinical guidelines body), the Arthritis Research UK, and every major musculoskeletal research organisation.
• Stronger muscles reduce load on arthritic joints
• Exercise reduces OA pain more effectively than painkillers in the long term
• Progressive loading does not accelerate joint degeneration
• Cartilage health is supported by movement and load — not rest
• Exercise significantly reduces fall risk — critical for older adults with OA
It is never too late to start. People in their 70s, 80s & 90s with significant osteoarthritis make remarkable gains with the right programme.
How Movement Possible approaches osteoarthritis
Every client starts with a comprehensive clinical assessment — understanding which joints are affected, the severity, your history, your goals, and what you want to get back to. From there we build a progressive strength and movement programme designed around your specific situation.
This is not a generic arthritis class. It's one-to-one clinical guidance in a private studio in Cold Higham, Towcester. Every session is tailored. Every programme evolves as you progress.
Manual therapy is available alongside strengthening where it adds value. Education — understanding what osteoarthritis actually is and isn't — is woven throughout. Because understanding your condition reduces fear, and reduced fear helps you move more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exercise won't make my arthritis worse?
Correct — when done correctly, progressively and under appropriate supervision. This is well established in the research. The concern that exercise accelerates joint degeneration is not supported by the evidence. In fact, the opposite is true: inactivity accelerates the functional decline associated with osteoarthritis far faster than appropriate exercise.
My joints are bone on bone — surely I can't exercise?
'Bone on bone' is a term used to describe severe loss of cartilage on imaging. It does not mean exercise is unsafe — in fact, people with severe radiological osteoarthritis often do extremely well with strength training. The scan tells us about the joint structure. It tells us very little about function or what's possible.
I'm in my 70s — is it too late to start?
No. Movement Possible works primarily with people in their 50s, 60s and 70s. Tristen's own parents, both in their late 70s, train regularly and have seen remarkable improvements. There is no upper age limit for strength training. The benefits are often greatest for older adults.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No referral is needed. Book a free discovery call directly. If there are any aspects of your health that require medical input, this will be discussed during your initial assessment.
What joints do you work with?
Knee osteoarthritis, hip osteoarthritis, shoulder osteoarthritis, spinal osteoarthritis (including facet joint changes) and hand osteoarthritis. Each requires a different approach — which is why the initial assessment is so important.
How is this different from a gym class or hydrotherapy?
It is one-to-one, clinically assessed and individually programmed. Tristen holds an MSc in Pain Management and Sports Therapy Diploma — meaning every programme is informed by a deep understanding of pain, joint health and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. This is not a generic exercise class. It is a clinical programme designed specifically for you.
Ready to find out what's possible?
Book a free 20-minute discovery call. No commitment — just a conversation about where you are and whether I can help.
📞 07734 429423
Based in Cold Higham, Towcester, Northamptonshire. Serving Towcester, Northampton, Brackley, Daventry, Milton Keynes and surrounding villages.