Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic

It is a common notion that osteoarthritis comes with aging but it is not like that. It has been observed that older people are not necessarily sufferers of osteoarthritis and it is not necessary that they will have to suffer the pain. Even someone young can develop this problem.

OA or osteoarthritis is more common in women than men and affects around 20 million Americans. It is also known as the degenerative joint disease. The slippery tissue that meets in a joint towards the end of the bones is known as the cartilage. In OA, the cartilage is affected. The main function of the cartilage is to help the bones to glide over one another. In case of OA, the cartilage does not work properly and breaks down. Due to this, the bones do not glide and just rub against each other which results in pain, swelling and loss of motion. Recent researches have shown that OA is not due to aging although the general observation of OA is in people above the age of 65 years. Various factors contributing in OA are lack of exercise, joint injuries, family history of OA and overweight.

In order to diagnose osteoarthritis, there are patient examination, x-rays and clinical history that need to be taken care of. Tests like drawing fluid from the joint are at times performed. Continuous pain in the joint, stiffness in the joint after sleeping,sitting or not moving for a long period of time, swelling in the joints or a crunching feeling when the bones rub against one another are some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

In order to treat or even prevent osteoarthritis, exercise is an important thing to do. It results in strengthening of muscles around the joints and provides proper functioning and moving of the joints. The key factors that affect the seriousness of the symptoms are the patient's mood and outlook. Exercise helps in improving that and the weight of the patient as well.

Chiropractors have a good knowledge about the symptoms and treatment of OA. They can determine the effect of degenerative changes in the spine, knees, hips and other joints that can get affected. They can help the patient reduce the pain and get the condition back to normal. With the various methods that are available, chiropractors can help the patient achieve long term relief. So, consult your chiropractor in case you think you are suffering from OA and can notice the symptoms.