Movement

The cartilage is nurished by movement and thus its drawing of nutrients from the synovial fluid depends on joint movement. Movement is therefore one of the most important aspects in the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Because movements may be very painful for some osteoarthritic patients, there are different types of movement therapy:

Physiotherapy

The aim of remedial gymnastics is to maintain or restore mobility and functioning of the body or individual body areas. It is also applied to equalise unbalanced muscular strength ratios and to achieve pain relief.
Physiotherapy is prescribed by the attending physician; it is used both as a preventive measure and after surgery.

Physical therapy

This type of treatment is a form of physiotherapy that uses physical methods such as heat or cold or electrical stimulation. It is also used both in prevention and rehabilitation.