Signs of Osteoarthritis

 Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the bones rub together due to worn tissue and cartilage that covers the joints. Cartilage has two functions in the body. It works as a lubricant and shock absorber, helping the bones in the joints move together safely and smoothly. For individuals with osteoarthritis, this movement of the joints and the bones is painful because the bones eventually rub together without the protection of cartilage. Osteoarthritis is frequently experienced in the neck, lower back, hips, hands, and knees. Chiropractic care can be an excellent treatment modality for osteoarthritis because chiropractic adjustments, also known as spinal manipulation, focus on creating alignment within the body. When the spine and the body are aligned, tissue inflammation is reduced, nerve function is improved, and there is less strain and stress on the affected joints. For patients in Nitro, WV, interested in addressing osteoarthritis with chiropractic care, Dr. Jay McClanahan with Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center provides outstanding care to all his patients.

Signs and Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis

The Cleveland Clinic estimates that more than 80% of adults over 55 have osteoarthritis, and 60% of these adults are symptomatic. Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness, or swelling near a joint, joint deformity (looks different than it used to), a lack of strength and stability in a joint, and decreased range of motion. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and certain autoimmune diseases that affect the joints, such as lupus and scleroderma. 

Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis

If you are concerned that you have osteoarthritis and you live in Nitro, make an appointment with Dr. McClanahan so he can properly diagnose your condition. In your first appointment, Dr. McClanahan will take a comprehensive medical history, including lifestyle choices and current symptoms. He may use X-rays or recommend an MRI, CT scan, or blood tests to rule out the possibility of other conditions. Osteoarthritis can be mild and non-disruptive in some patients and extremely painful and debilitating in others. Over time, the wearing down of the material between the joints can lead to damaged ligaments, tendons, bone, synovium, and meniscus (in the knee).

Chiropractic Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Chiropractic treatment of osteoarthritis will include gentle chiropractic adjustments to ensure the body and the joints are in alignment. Dr. McClanahan may also recommend personalized therapeutic exercises and other chiropractic services to help reduce pain and inflammation in his patients. Osteoarthritis is common, but you do not have to suffer in silence. Contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, to make an appointment with Dr. McClanahan.  (304) 776-1520