Osteoarthritis, affecting approximately 240 million people worldwide, remains a significant public health challenge. Among its various forms, coxarthrosis, or hip osteoarthritis, affects 10% of people with osteoarthritis in Quebec. This condition leads to severe pain, restricting movements, and impacting the quality of life for patients.
The consequences of coxarthrosis
Coxarthrosis is a progressive degeneration of the hip joint, causing musculoskeletal pain and limiting movements. It often results in a loss of mobility and restrictions in daily activities for 25% of affected individuals. Walking becomes challenging, altering locomotor patterns and leading to concerning sedentary behavior. Coxarthrosis extends beyond physical implications, negatively influencing patients' social participation. To optimize care, a bio-psycho-social approach is necessary.
Adapted physical activity: a pillar of care
Regular physical activity is recommended as a non-pharmacological treatment. Adapted Physical Activity (APA) emerges as a crucial therapeutic approach for patients with coxarthrosis, encompassing a variety of exercises aimed at improving quality of life and autonomy.
What is APA?
APA, as defined by the Society of French Professionals in Adapted Physical Activity (SFP-APA), is tailored for individuals unable to engage in regular physical activity due to specific health needs. For those with coxarthrosis, APA offers enhancements in quality of life, autonomy, and promotes engagement in regular physical activity.
Recommended activities for coxarthrosis
Specific exercises adapted for hip osteoarthritis include walking, Nordic walking, elliptical cycling, stretching, Tai Chi, and periarticular muscle strengthening. These activities contribute to pain reduction, improvement in overall physical condition, and increased functional capacities. Beginning with gentle analytical exercises and progressing to functional exercises like walking or elliptical cycling is crucial. No exercise should induce pain during or after the session. Consulting with a physiotherapist to establish personalized goals and tailored exercises is imperative.
Sustainable activity engagement
Consistency and alignment with the intensity, volume, duration, and variations of exercises are key to sustained engagement. The use of digital technologies can enhance activity adherence by quantifying progress and facilitating group practices.
Engaging in adapted physical activity for coxarthrosis should be a source of pleasure and well-being. Continuous motivation, coupled with a personalized approach, not only alleviates symptoms of hip osteoarthritis but also enhances overall quality of life. The prescription of APA stands as a pivotal lever in managing coxarthrosis, offering patients a pathway to an active and fulfilling life.
Physio & Co. is here to offer you the highest level of home physiotherapy care. Contact us today at 819-943-7745 to enjoy the many benefits of personalized, convenient, and effective physiotherapy in the comfort of your home.
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