Arthritis

ARTHRITIS

There are many types of arthritis. This article addresses the most common type, osteoarthritis. this form is also known as degenerative joint disease. When it affects the spine, it often is called degenerative disc disease. Previously, it was thought to be a normal part of aging, but more recent research shows that genetic tendencies, prior injury, obesity and lack of exercise are also important risk factors. Many patients confuse osteoarthritis with osteoporosis which is thinning of the bones and increasing risk of fracture. The two are not necessarily related.

Arthritis starts to develop in a joint when the cartilage lining of the joint starts to break down. This cartilage allows the joint to glide smoothly. Damage to the cartilage and the subsequent wearing of the joint causees pain, swelling and stiffness. Bone spurs (called osteophytes) can form along the margin of the joint and can be seen on x-ray.

When degenerative disease affects the spine, the discs begin to thin. The discs act as the shock absorbers and spacers between the vertebrae. The thinning of the disc causes more pressure and irritation of the spinal joints and can pinch the nerves which exit the spine between the vertebrae. This is one of the causes of "pinched nerve."

ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS

Pain and stiffness are the hallmarks of osteoarthritis. The pain can be steady or intermittent and is often aggravated by too litlle or too much activity. Weather change, particularly when the barometric pressure is dropping, can caused increased swelling and symptoms. Stiffness are often worse in the morning or after a period of inactivity such as sitting for too long. Mild activity or exercise often improves the symptoms. Frequently, the joints make a crunching or clicking sound. During a flare-up, the joint can be swollen as well.

ARTHRITIS TREATMENT

Often, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (like Advil, Ibuprofen, naproxen) are used to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis. These may provide rapid pain relief, they carry significant risks when used for long term management.

In 1999, the New England Journal of Medicine reported that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories used for rheumatoid arthritis and/or osteoarthritis cause 16,500 Americans to bleed to death each year, making it the 15th most common cause of death in the US.

Chiropractic treatment restores motion to the joints and can alleviate the pain and stiffnes of arthritis, at the same time, improving range of motion and strength. Acupuncture has been shown to improve pain and range of motion. Moderate exercise can help maintain these benefits. Work with your Doctor of Chiropractic to find the right type  and amount of exercise for you.

Omega 3 oils such as EPA and DHA (found in fish oils) can reducae pain and inflammation without the side effects of medications. Balancing these oils with Omega 6 oils can be an effective pain management strategy. There are other considerations in taking fish oil, especially if you are taking coumadin or other anti-coagulants.  Fish oil has been shown to reduce the incidence of strokes and hert attack as well. See our article on fish oil for more details.

Glucosamine and chondroiton may be helpful as well. These have not been researched in pregnant women and should not be used during pregnancy. Ginger, tumeric and citrus fruit extracts have been shown to reduce inflammation. Consult with your Doctor of Chiropractic before using these supplements.

If you suffer from arthritis, schedule a consultation with oneof our doctors today.