Chiro Clinic ~ Osteoarthritis – Causes, Treatment, Prevention

Osteoarthritis is often referred to as the “wear and tear” arthritis. Although there is some truth to this statement, closer examination of this condition reveals that there are multiple factors involved in its development. In fact, osteoar-thritis will also paradoxically develop in under-used joints. A good example of this is the case of a joint which is immobilized by a cast. The immobilized joint will start to show cellular changes that are characteristic of osteoarthritis within a few weeks!
Osteoarthritis does have a tendency to affect joints which have undergone a trauma, either repetitive in nature or a single severe episode. A mechanic using his hands over a long period of time may develop it in his finger joints, while a person who suffers a severe whiplash may develop it in their neck. This factor is not the only one however, as many individuals who undergo physical trauma never develop osteoarthritis. Certainly, genetics plays a role in this condition, but if current research holds true, lifestyle probably plays a greater role than genes.
We know that the body's ability to produce glucosamine (a key component in joint cartilage) steadily declines as we age. Interestingly, our rate of osteoarthritis seems to increase at about the same pace that our ability to produce glucosamine declines. It is possible that there are some nutritional factors which either enhance or inhibit our body's production of glucos amine, but research is not clear on this yet. There is some research indicating that diets high in meat and dairy tend to create a pro-inflammatory state in the body, another key factor in the development of osteoarthritis.
Finally, we know that poor body mechanics plays a key factor in the development of this condition. Joints subject to abnormal motion patterns due to poor posture, tight musculature, muscular weakness or poor joint play can start to show signs of this arthritis earlier than their “normal” counterparts.
For example, the person who notices that they have more tightness in one hip versus the other will more likely develop arthritis in that tight hip later in life.
Treatment of osteoarthritis varies greatly and depends largely on the severity of the condition. At the extreme end of the condition we have full joint replacements, while at the other end we may have individuals who address body mechanics in an effort to prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Osteoarthritis typically runs through the three stages of stiffness, instability and then more stiffness, as the body attempts to fuse the joint. Most individuals, however, will find themselves somewhere in the middle, trying to treat the symptoms of the arthritis which has already started, while also trying to avoid its further progression. These individuals will benefit from a trial of glucosamine sulphate for at least two months. There is substantial research on glucosamine sulphate which shows that it not only decreases the pain of ost-eoarthritis but also restores function in the joint. There are also a number of natural anti-inflammatory substances which show promise for controlling the inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. White willow, turmeric, pro-teolytic enzymes, bromelain and a natural substance called MSM all have research demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects. These patients should also consider switching to a diet higher in plant products and lower in animal products in an effort to control inflammation.
Improving body mechanics is also critical in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Stretching and strengthening the area can be very helpful, but sometimes difficult to perform due to extreme stiffness. Getting into water, such as deep water aerobics or running, can help with stiffness and allow the individual to perform more exercise with minimal stress on the joint. Seeing a chiropractor is invaluable, as a chiropractic doctor can evaluate overall body mechanics, posture and joint play. Joint play is the small but critical amount of motion which is first lost in osteoar-thritis. Restoring this joint play through joint adjustment, mobilization and rehabilitation is critical in the management of this osteoarthritis.
Prevention of osteoarthritis is important. Individuals should consider early treatment of injured joints and the surrounding muscles. Paradoxically, exercise which is not too extreme actually helps the joints. The old adage “if you don't use it you'll lose it” does seem to have merit. Movement of joints allows circulation of fluid within the joint. Since it is fluid that nourishes the joint, it is most likely this factor which causes arthritis to develop in the under-used joints. Use of supplements like glucosamine sulphate on a smaller dosage may help prevent arthritis, as well as an overall healthy diet. Finally, assessment of body mechanics, posture, joint play and injury treatment by your chiropractor is critical for the prevention of osteoarthritis.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding osteoar-thritis please feel free to contact our clinic at 403-933-3088.

Dr. Greg Morris
Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic

Dr. Greg Morris, Dr. Natalie Carrington and Dr. Mike Belding can all be contacted at the Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic, 403-933-3088.