Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care

Osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, or degenerative joint disease (DJD) are the labels for the most common form of arthritis, which is also called, spondylosis, if it occurs in the spine. This form of arthritis is not limited to humans, but occurs in all mammals, and is due to the breakdown of the cartilage that covers the joint surfaces. Degenerative changes in the joint happens when joint cartilage is harmed and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is usually protected by the cartilage. Sometimes the bone around the joint will proliferate and make osteophytes, or what are more commonly called bone spurs. These spurs can produce painful irritation to other tissues adjacent to the joint, therefore complicating the already hurtful condition.

Degenerative joints as a rule occur in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, hips, and fingers. Everyone may experience DJD at one point in their lives, though previous trauma, ones occupation, activities, weight, diet, and heredity influence the degree of the condition and its onset.

The symptoms of DJD perpetually involve some degree of pain and/or stiffness in the body part involved. As the condition advances there can be loss of mobility, especially when weight-bearing joints such as hips or knees are affected.  In some cases, if the joint is appreciably worn and the person can no longer walk without severe pain, the joints are surgically replaced with synthetic devices. Of course, one should make an effort to manage the condition early on in ones life to avoid the need for surgery.

The best management of DJD is, of course, prevention that involves taking care of ones joints at an early age.

* One should always be certain that, especially when young, all injuries to joints are correctly managed to insure proper healing to avoid future disability.
* People involved in occupations that require standing or walking should wear proper shoes that offer good support and shock absorption.
* Excess body weight can produce increased stress upon the weight bearing joints of the body.

* Avoid kneeling on hard surfaces, such as when doing housework, as this can put strain and cause knee pain.

* Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables as they contain natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are vital for the health of the joints, as well as the rest of the body.

Recent studies have shown that long-term use of the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can not only assist with DJD symptoms, but might help to rebuild joint cartilage.

Chiropractic adjustments are not only a smart idea, but an effectual treatment for arthritis, and can help to restore proper mobility and function to the spinal joints, thereby giving patients great relief. Your Chicago chiropractor has many of years of expertise in helping people with arthritis pain. Other forms of chiropractic care may include joint mobilization, massage, ultrasound, cold laser, or electro-therapy, all of which may be helpful in the relief of painful and stiff joints. Sometimes a brace is used to help stabilize the joint in an effort to alleviate pain. A chiropractor may suggest exercises such as stretching, yoga, tai chi and other gentle mobilizing activities to help maintain arthritic joints.

Gout

Gouty arthritis is caused by increased levels of uric acid in the blood and the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Generally, gouty arthritis is characterized by acute pain and swelling of the joints in the big toes, knees, ankles and wrists. Many people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are more often than not brought on by binge eating of inflammatory foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Foods that must be avoided have a natural substance called Purines that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. People with this condition cannot effectively metabolize uric acid, thus the buildup in the bloodstream and the ensuing joint problems. The foods most associated with high purine content are: red meat especially organ meat, certain seafood, legumes, mushrooms and other foods as well. There are other dietary restrictions that must be followed including avoiding alcohol.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of systemic origin. The primary cause is not known, but it is thought to be connected to a problem with the immune system. The most common joints affected are the small joints of the hands and fingers, the feet, knees, and shoulder, although other areas of the body can be affected as well. The condition is generally associated with morning stiffness that is aggravated by motion. Many times people complain of general malaise and fatigue, and the disease in its more advanced forms can affect many of the other body systems. Rheumatoid arthritis can be easily identified through particularized blood tests. Management includes medication and vitamin and diet therapy, as well as chiropractic treatments. In addition, joint mobilization and modalities such as ultrasound, heat, electro-therapy and massage can help with the pain and stiffness associated the condition. Your Chicago chiropractor is dedicated to helping people in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis.

Technorati Tags: arthritis, chiropractor, joint pain, joint swelling, pain relief