WHAT IS OSTEOARTHRITIS?
Osteoarthritis, commonly referred to as OA, is usually seen in patients over the age of 50. It is sometimes referred to as ‘wear and tear’ or degeneration of the joints. It starts gradually but can worsen over time.
As you get older there is a larger risk of developing osteoarthritis. There are other factors that may make it more likely for a patient to develop osteoarthritis, including previous damage to the joints and long-term overuse.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain and stiffness, which is commonly worse first thing in the morning and after long periods of activity. There may also be some intermittent swelling of the affected joints. Osteoarthritis is commonly seen in the weight-bearing joints including the hips and knees, along with joints that see lots of repetitive movements including the hands and fingers.
Although osteoarthritis is a common condition, it is important that it is diagnosed correctly and differentiated from other conditions, for example from other forms of arthritis. This means that the condition can then be managed correctly.
HOW A CHIROPRACTOR CAN HELP YOU
A chiropractor can help with problems that involve joints and muscles using a range of mobilisation, manipulation and stretching techniques that aim to keep you moving. A chiropractor can also give you some specific stretching and strengthening exercises to help you manage your condition.
If you have any more questions or think a chiropractor may be able to help you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and contact me at Lushington Chiropractic Clinic.
SELF-HELP TIPS FOR MANAGING OSTEOARTHRITIS
- Keep moving! Don’t rest for too long. Staying in the same position for long periods may cause your joints to feel stiff. Although you may feel stiff, especially in the morning, it is important to get moving and this should help you feel better throughout the day.
- Get some exercise! It is important to realise that there are some great activities to keep your joints moving such as cycling, swimming and even walking. These are also a great way of getting some exercise planned into your day too. You may find that non-weight bearing activities, such as cycling and swimming, are less likely to aggravate your symptoms.
For more information about osteoarthritis, check out these blogs _____.
CASE STUDY – WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I VISIT A CHIROPRACTOR?
A patient with joint pains arising from osteoarthritis typically presents to a chiropractor with joint pain and stiffness.
As with all patients, the chiropractor will firstly ask you lots of questions in order to get a clear picture of what is going on and how your symptoms are affecting your everyday life. The chiropractor will also review your health and medical history. The chiropractor will then go on to perform a physical examination to assess your general movement as well as your nerves, muscles and joints. This usually involves a range of tests which will be explained clearly to you during your appointment.
Once the chiropractor has all of the information they need, they will give you a Report of Findings. During this time, they will take the time to explain, in detail, what they found in the history and physical examination and then explain how chiropractic care can help you (f appropriate). Treatment is tailored to the individual needs of every patient and so will vary from person to person. Treatment for osteoarthritis typically includes mobilisation and manipulation techniques, soft tissue work, home advice and stretching and strengthening exercises with the aim of getting you moving and keeping you moving.