Osteoarthritis Program
Most osteoarthritis pain isn't actually about the joint.
Osteoarthritis program in Burlington
Imaging severity and pain don't always match. The right rehab program reduces symptoms, restores function, and often delays or prevents surgery — even with significant joint changes.
What we treat
Where we focus.
Osteoarthritis affects different joints in different ways. Our program is built around the joints where evidence-based rehab makes the biggest difference.
The most common location. Strengthening the quads, hips, and core, plus targeted manual therapy, can often reduce pain by 30-50% within weeks.
Stiff, painful hips that limit walking, stairs, or putting on shoes. Mobility work and progressive strengthening restore meaningful function.
Glenohumeral and AC joint OA. We focus on scapular control, rotator cuff strength, and pain-free range of motion.
Pain at the base of the thumb (CMC joint), finger joint stiffness. Splinting, joint protection strategies, and targeted exercise.
Facet joint arthritis in the low back or neck causing stiffness and pain. Movement-based treatment beats rest in almost every case.
If you're heading toward joint replacement, prehab makes the surgery and recovery measurably better. Stronger going in, stronger coming out.
Our approach
The evidence is clear: exercise beats imaging.
The international guidelines for OA management put strength training and education first. Surgery and injections are tools we use when needed, not the starting point.
We explain what's actually happening in your joint and what the evidence says about treatment. Knowing why often reduces pain on its own.
Specific exercises for the muscles around the affected joint, progressed by load and complexity over 6-12 weeks.
Hands-on techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility — used to support the exercise program, not as the main event.
By the end you'll have a maintenance program you can do independently, with a clear understanding of when to come back if things flare.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about osteoarthritis
Do I need an X-ray or MRI to start?+
Usually not. Imaging confirms the diagnosis but rarely changes the treatment plan. Many patients with severe imaging findings have minimal pain, and vice versa. If we think imaging will change what we do, we'll tell you.
Can physio actually help if my joint is 'bone on bone'?+
Yes — and the research is strong here. Even with significant joint changes, strengthening the muscles around the joint and improving how you load it can substantially reduce pain and delay or avoid the need for surgery.
Should I avoid exercise to protect my joints?+
The opposite, actually. Inactivity makes OA worse. Joints need movement and load to stay healthy. The right exercise program — guided, progressive, and matched to your tolerance — is the single most effective treatment.
How long until I notice a difference?+
Most patients notice meaningful improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent, well-prescribed exercise. Bigger gains come over 3-6 months. We track your progress so you can see what's actually changing.
Related services
You might also be interested in
Foundational rehab for OA. Most osteoarthritis programs run through physio.
Lower-impact strengthening when land exercise is too painful early on. We use it as a bridge for many OA patients.
If you do end up needing joint replacement, we run rehab from day one through full return to function.
Clinically reviewed by Stephanie Aubin, MPT
NEXT STEP
Tell us what's going on, and we'll help guide you to the right starting point.
Whether you're booking for yourself, sending a referral, or not sure which service fits, the next step should feel easy.