Osteoarthritis: Diagnosing and treating joint pain

Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage in the joints progressively degenerates to the point where it essentially disappears. Because cartilage acts as padding between the bones that form joints, once it is gone, soreness, swelling, stiffness and general discomfort occurs in the area.

Osteoarthritis Symptoms

Osteoarthritis symptoms can vary from mild and infrequent pain to periods of complete debilitation, depending on the patient. The pain occurs in the area where the cartilage is broken down; for example, those with spinal osteoarthritis will experience neck and lower back pain, while those who have the condition in the hands will feel it in the wrists and fingers.

Another symptom of osteoarthritis is the formation of Heberden’s nodes, or bone spurs in the joint. These are most commonly found in small joints such as the knuckles.

Some people who suffer from osteoarthritis, even in cases of severe cartilage loss, experience very little pain, while others experience severe pain even with little cartilage loss.

Osteoarthritis Treatment – What a Chiropractor Can Do For You

Reducing cartilage deterioration is not an option in osteoarthritis treatment, so the focus is instead placed on pain management. Regular chiropractic treatments can help control the pain associated with arthritis and help you regain mobility in the afflicted area.

A chiropractor will conduct motion exercises, massage and possibly adjustment, as your case dictates. As your treatment progresses, he or she can adapt these techniques for continued progress.

Living With Osteoarthritis

In conjunction with medical treatment, there are a number of at-home methods for controlling your osteoarthritis pain. These include:

• Assistive devices. Various tools exist to help reduce stress on joints afflicted with osteoarthritis, including ergonomic keyboards, wrist guards and knee braces.
• Exercise. Exercise, when approved by your doctor or chiropractor, can help you maintain your range of motion and improve your health. A healthy body weight is one of the best ways to reduce stress on your joints.
• OTCs. Medicinal rubs or oral pain relievers can help with pain on a short-term basis, but be sure to consult a doctor about proper use.