What is osteoarthritis (OA)?
Commonly known as the 'wear and tear' disease and is a degenerative form of osteoarthrits (OA). The cartilage functions as a shock absorber, but with OA the cartilage is worn down and the joint surface becomes rough, leaving the bones unprotected.
OA is a very common form of arthritis. OA affects 1 in 6 New Zealanders. It commonly begins after the age of 40years old. There is no known cure for OA but there are many ways to help manage the condition. OA normally occurs in the hands and weight bearing joints. These maybe include the hips, knee's, spine and feet.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:
Pain
Stiffness of the joint on getting out of bed or after sitting for a prolonged period
Pain around the joint
Joint swelling
Muscle weakness
Creaking or crackling sensation around the joint, with movement
Causes of Osteoarthritis:
Age- OA normally occurs after 40 years of age
Excessive weight- The increased body weight puts more pressure on your joints and increases your chances of developing OA
Gender- One risk factor you can not influence is your gender. Women are more likely to develop OA than males
Heredity- If there is a family history of OA, you are more likely to develop OA
Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis:
OA is diagnosed by physical examination, symptom presentation and xray images.
Osteoarthritis Management:
Pain killers- Speak to your local pharmacist or GP to recommend some pain medication to relieve the pain
Exercise- Keeping active is an effective way of relieving pain + stiffness, maintaining joint function, improving muscle strength, protecting your joints, managing your weight and increasing energy + sense of well-being. Example include: Tai Chi, walking, swimming, gentle exercise classes and hydrotherapy
Heat or cold
Surgery- Joint replacements are an option for severe OA
Wear supportive shoes
Maintain a healthy weight
Osteopathic treatment for Osteoarthritis
Osteopathic treatment for osteoarthritis offers a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. Osteopaths employ a variety of gentle hands-on techniques, including soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and stretching exercises, to alleviate pain, reduce stiffness, and improve joint function. By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and optimizing biomechanics, osteopathic treatment aims to reduce the progression of osteoarthritis and enhance the body's ability to heal and adapt. Additionally, osteopaths may provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, exercise programs, and nutritional strategies to support joint health and minimize discomfort associated with osteoarthritis. With a focus on restoring balance and function to the affected joints, osteopathic treatment offers a holistic and personalized approach to managing osteoarthritis, empowering individuals to live active and fulfilling lives despite the challenges posed by this condition.