Osteoarthritis: a disease characterized by gradual deterioration of the cartilage in the joints. Unlike an acute condition, Fort Oglethorpe osteoarthritis is a recurrent and long-lasting illness. It is usually the hip, knees and joints of the hand that are affected in osteoarthritis. Of people in the age group 55 years old and above, approximately 50% experience osteoarthritis in some part of their bodies. There are two main categories of osteoarthritis:
1. Primary osteoarthritis – may be due to excessive or repetitive strain. There also can be a hereditary component.
2. Secondary osteoarthritis – almost always a consequence of trauma.
Common signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis in GA are:
1. Pain – the first symptom that moves the patient to pursue treatment and care
2. Stiffness – of the affected parts generally comes in the morning
3. Swelling – is a sign of an inflammatory condition
4. Crepitus – clicking sound from lack of lubrication or from bone rubbing on bone.
Osteoarthritis therapy at Pain Relief Center includes:
1. Weight reduction – to minimize stress on joints that support weight
2. Exercise – increases muscle strength and encourages cartilage formation
3. Diet – essential nutrients to combat osteoarthritis are vitamins C & D, calcium, Glucosamine sulfate and Chondroitin sulfate
4. Heat – can be beneficial in minimizing the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis
Your Chiropractor, Dr. William Johnson DC, will perform a thorough history and examination including orthopaedic, neurological testing and diagnostic radiography to determine the extent of your osteoarthritis. By doing so, he can create a plan of management and adjust it to suit your specific case and needs.
Tags: chiropractic clinics, chiropractor, chiropractors, joint pain, osteoarthritis
