Osteoarthritis — Hip and Knee
Osteoarthritis gradually wears down joint cartilage, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. Physiotherapy and regenerative treatments help manage symptoms, improve function, and support joint health.
Understanding Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent long-term joint condition, often called ‘wear-and-
tear’ arthritis. It is a progressive degenerative disorder leading to breakdown of joint cartilage
and eventual impact on surrounding bones, ligaments, and muscles. It most commonly
affects the hips and knees, and is strongly linked to age, obesity, prior joint injury, and
genetics.
Causes
- Natural wear and tear over time
- Previous joint injury or surgery
- Aging and cartilage degeneration
- Obesity and lack of physical activity
- Genetic predisposition
- Underlying medical conditions
Symptoms
- Pain or aching after extended activity or at the end of the day
- Morning stiffness or stiffness after resting
- Reduced range of motion
- Clicking or cracking sounds when bending a joint
- Swelling and tenderness around the affected joint
- Muscle weakness and joint instability
Treatment
Specialist & Regenerative Medicine Options
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy — Concentrated platelets from your own blood are injected into the affected joint under image guidance, providing growth factors and anti-inflammatory agents that may support joint health and pain management.
- Hyaluronic Acid (Viscosupplementation) — Products such as Synvisc or other hyaluronic acid formulations are injected into the joint to help restore the lubricating properties of synovial fluid, which may reduce discomfort and improve mobility in suitable patients.
- Stem Cell Therapy — Where clinically appropriate and within current TGA regulatory guidelines, autologous mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow or adipose tissue may be used as part of a personalised treatment plan.
- Combination PRP + Hyaluronic Acid — Where indicated, combining these two approaches may offer complementary effects for joint support and symptom management.
- Intra-osseous (Bone) Injections — Targeted injections for patients where subchondral bone changes are identified as a contributing factor to symptoms.
- Corticosteroid Injections — Used selectively for short-term symptom management to allow rehabilitation to progress.
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) — For patients with clinically confirmed low testosterone contributing to reduced recovery capacity, muscle weakness, or quality of life, our physicians can assess suitability for TRT. This prescription treatment is available only after comprehensive pathology review and medical assessment and is not appropriate for all patients.
- Peptide Therapy — Certain peptides, prescribed by our sports and exercise physicians where clinically appropriate, may support tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and assist recovery as part of a comprehensive management plan. All peptide treatments require a valid prescription following individual medical assessment in accordance with TGA and AHPRA requirements.
Our sports and exercise physicians at Prestidge work alongside your treating clinician to determine which option best suits your condition, goals, and stage of injury. Image-guided procedures are performed with precision and care. Visit prestidge.com.au to learn more about our full range of specialist services.
Prevention Tips
Maintain a healthy weight, stay active with low-impact exercise (swimming, cycling, walking), and practice good posture. Regular strength and flexibility training protects joints from excessive wear.