September is Arthritis Awareness Month
Written by Erica Warrellow, Lead Client Care Coordinator
Arthritis: How Physiotherapy Helps You Stay Active in Kelowna
Arthritis affects more Canadians than most people realize. According to Arthritis Society Canada, about 6 million Canadians (1 in 5 adults) live with arthritis. By 2045, this number is expected to grow to 9 million. Arthritis is not just a “disease of aging”: nearly one third of people with osteoarthritis are diagnosed before 45.
For people in Kelowna, this matters. Whether you enjoy hiking Knox Mountain, running along the waterfront, skiing Big White, or simply keeping up with daily routines, arthritis can interfere with the active lifestyle that makes the Okanagan such a great place to live.
The Impact of Arthritis
Mobility: People with arthritis are more than 5 times as likely to struggle with daily activities like walking or using stairs.
Pain: Over 40% report pain severe enough to limit activity
Work: Arthritis is a leading cause of work disability in Canada, with those affected being twice as likely to be out of the workforce
Mental health: Chronic pain and mobility limitations also affect energy, mood, and confidence
Arthritis is more than joint pain, it influences quality of life, productivity, and independence.
How Physiotherapy Helps
At our clinic, we see arthritis patients every week. Physiotherapy is one of the most effective, non-drug ways to manage arthritis and stay active. Here’s how we help:
1. Personalized Exercise Plans
We design programs that build strength around affected joints, improve flexibility, and maintain mobility. Even low-impact exercises like walking, cycling, and tailored strength training can reduce pain and improve function.
2. Education and Self-Management
We teach strategies for joint protection, pacing activities, and managing flare-ups. Knowing when to push, when to rest, and how to move safely makes a big difference.
3. Hands-On Therapy & Tools
When needed, adjunct treatments such as manual therapy, taping, bracing, blood-flow restriction, or modalities like heat, IMS, and TENS can support pain relief and help facilitate getting back to your daily activities.
Living Well with Arthritis in Kelowna
Arthritis does not mean giving up the activities that matter most to you. With the right strategies, many people continue running, hiking, and staying active well into later life. Physiotherapy provides the tools, support, and confidence to move safely, reduce pain, and maintain independence.
If you are living with arthritis and want to keep enjoying all that Kelowna’s outdoors and community have to offer, we are here to help.
Book an assessment today and let’s build a plan together.
References
Arthritis Society Canada. (2023, October). Arthritis facts, figures and statistics. https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/what-is-arthritis/arthritis-facts-and-figures.