Chiropractor and Osteoarthritis

Elderly people today form an increasing part of the population. A good quality of life ensures that they feel fit and healthy until an old age. Hobbies, sports and other activities form a big part of their lives. This maintains mental and physical wellbeing for as long as possible. However, an aging body will increasingly be a limiting factor.
 
Osteoarthritis is a common ailment in which the quality of the cartilage in the joints slowly deteriorates and can eventually disappear completely. The condition commonly occurs in the joints of the hands, knees and hips. Osteoarthritis is the most common of all rheumatic diseases. Joints are surrounded by a protective layer, a type of cushion that functions as a shock absorber. This is called cartilage. The cartilage ensures that the bone ends move smoothly over each other. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage to slowly break down. Because of this, the underlying bone can be damaged and lead to pain. The muscles and tendons are also overloaded by this process.
 
Osteoarthritis - wear and joint pains can occur in

• Neck
• Back
• Shoulders
• Knees
• Ankles
• Feet
• Hips
• Wrists

Cause of Osteoarthritis

 
Bone thinning (osteoporosis) and wear (osteoarthritis) are both natural processes of aging. Because of these aging processes, the joints and vertebrae do not function optimally. Nerve irritation can occur in many people, resulting in pain. In the Netherlands, a large part of the population is affected by osteoarthritis. However, osteoarthritis is not limited to older people. Young people can also experience osteoarthritis. Possible causes Include being overwet or heavy physical work.
 
Osteoporosis & Osteoarthritis Symptoms
 Stiffness and pain are the most common symptoms. We often hear our patients say that they find it difficult to get going again in the morning after waking up. This is also a well-known phenomenon after sitting for a long time (eg in the car).

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis or loss of bone calcification is a natural phenomenon that can cause collapsed vertebrae in the back (see drawing). Contrary to popular belief, this rarely causes complaints. The collapsed vertebrae can only cause pain in extreme cases.

Arthrosis

A common form of osteoarthritis in the elderly is osteoarthritis of the hip. Another form of osteoarthritis is that of the neck, thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. As a result of these wear processes, various complaints can arise, such as headache, dizziness, chest pain, back pain and sciatica.
Treating osteoarthritis?
 
View osteoarthritis treatment page for more info!

Treating osteoarthritis Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a medicine that has been around for more than 100 years. Treatment focuses on disorders of the functioning of the musculoskeletal system and the relationship with the nervous system. A chiropractor checks the spine for blockages. Through a thorough examination and targeted treatment, the chiropractor locates and corrects these blockages. This restores the flow of nerves and allows the body to heal itself again.
 
The first visit

• Intake                        
  A patient questionnaire is filled in followed by a discussion with the chiropractor in order to establish a thorough case history.
• Examination              
  Chiropractic tests
  Neurological test
  Orthopaedic test
• X-ray, MRI, IDXA          
  Whichever is indicated necessary
• Diagnosis                       
  Given by the Chiropractor
• Treatment                     
  Nearly always already on the first visit

The chiropractic treatment

With his specialist knowledge and skills, the chiropractor examines the spine and nervous system to locate unnatural movements and blockages. In this way he can determine what the cause of the abnormality is. The chiropractor can relieve the pain caused by osteoarthritis. Chiropractic treatments aim to improve incorrect posture, increase spinal mobility and restore the function of irritated nerves. The chiropractor will try to correct abnormalities in the spine through treatment. This is done by putting pressure on the joint with the hands. This restores the freedom of movement of the joint and reduces pain. Once the desired treatment outcome has been achieved, the chiropractor will recommend that you return regularly for maintenance treatments. By maintaining the spine properly, the patient maintains optimal freedom of movement. See also treating osteoarthritis.

The most frequently asked questions about osteoarthritis

Do I ever get rid of osteoarthritis?
No, no one can do anything about the osteoarthritis itself. Chiropractors can relieve pain and restore freedom of movement by keeping the spine supple.
 
Is it possible that I get more pain due to inclement weather?
Yes, air pressure change affects the joints. The saying "I can feel it is raining on my joints" is therefor correct.
 
Why is a chiropractor also called a "cracker"?
During chiropractic treatment, the chiropractor puts pressure on the joint. With this correction, the patient sometimes hears a “cracking sound”. This crack is the result of a bubble formation in the joint, which is released by the pressure placed on the joint and thus causes the sound. It has nothing to do with bones moving over each other or tissues breaking.
 
Why do I have to come back when I feel good?
You can also ask the question: "Why do I have to go to the dentist for regular check-ups, even if I don't have a toothache?". By checking and optimizing the spine, you feel a lot suppler and fitter. You can also prevent complaints through regular check-ups.

Prevent and relieve pain in the neck and back

• Stand relaxed and upright with weight evenly distributed on both feet.
• Pay close attention to good posture. A sagging or bent posture causes significant tension on the entire back.
• Bend your knees well when lifting a heavy object. Hold the object close to the body and distribute the weight evenly on both sides.
• Being overweight is an extra burden to carry around constantly.
• Sleep on a good mattress.
• Never sleep on the stomach. Instead, lie on your back or side.
• Do not sleep on a thick pillow. It is advisable to use an orthopedic neck pillow.
• Use chairs that provide adequate support to the lower back at home, in the car and at the workplace.
• Avoid sitting continuously and do not cross your legs.
• Alternate long-term driving by taking frequent breaks to relax and check your posture.
• Wear shoes that fit well and provide adequate support.
• Stay active and healthy. Health can be promoted by practicing sports that do notoverload the back, such as swimming and walking.
• Responsible sports practice always starts with a good warm-up and ends with a cool-down.

Finally
In addition to providing advice on nutrition and exercise, the chiropractor can also slow down the natural aging process. It does not mean that you have to learn to live with your complaints and that you cannot lead an active life. Therefore, consult a chiropractor regularly, because chiropractic examination and the treatment help to keep the back and neck in good condition and to prevent pain.

Read more about osteoarthritis treatment
 
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