Arthritis
Physician's Rx: Keep Moving
It may seem counter-intuitive, but moderate
exercise is an effective treatment for
osteoarthritis.
Growing old is a blessing and a curse: a blessing
for the wisdom that comes with age, and a curse for
the aches and pains that result from years of
living. Osteoarthritis or OA is one of over a
hundred degenerative joint conditions that affect
nearly forty-six million adults in America alone.
Known as the "wear and tear" type of arthritis,
it's a common effect of aging: a breakdown of the
joint's cartilage that causes stiffness and loss of
mobility. According to the Arthritis Foundation,
osteoarthritis dates back to prehistoric times, and
affects about twenty-seven million Americans.
The importance of a healthy lifestyle.
Although there is no known cure, older adults at
risk for developing osteoarthritis can minimize its
impact by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A proper
diet is key, since obesity significantly increases
the risk for developing OA. Each pound of weight
gain adds three pounds of pressure on the knees and
six to the hips.
Since muscle weakness also contributes to the
development of the OA, strength training can not
only reduce one's risk, but lessen the severity of
its onset. Water-based programs such as deep water
running and water aerobics allow the body to go
through a full range of motion with no impact.
Pilates and yoga are two low-impact activities
that promote flexibility and strengthen the muscles
at the same time. Walking is also an excellent
choice: it requires no special equipment except for
supportive shoes, and strengthens the thigh muscles
to protect the knees.
Overuse of specific joints, especially the hands,
contributes to the development of osteoarthritis.
People with jobs that require repetitive movement
should consult physical or occupational therapists
to learn ways to reduce job-related stress.
Exercises that strengthen and increase mobility in
these joints reduce the likelihood that they will
become arthritic.
Pay attention to pain signals.
While exercise reduces the risk of developing
arthritis, it can also increase inflammation in
affected joints. Pain is the body's way of sending a
signal, to prevent a person from self-afflicted
harm. This doesn't mean don't exercise, but pay
attention to inflammation and pain.
Over-the-counter medications such as aspirin and
NSAIDS reduce inflammation, as do certain
prescription drugs. But all medications carry risks
and side effects, so be sure to consult a physician
about any and all drug treatments.
Alternative treatments
Traditional medicine is one of several options
for reducing arthritis-related pain. In our office,
we can perform manipulations of joints to reduce the
severity of symptoms. Since it's important to know
the extent to which arthritis has affected the
joints, I may prescribe X-rays or a MRI prior to
beginning treatment.
In addition, we'll recommend certain stretching
and strengthening exercises to stabilize the joints,
and restore as close-to-normal function as possible.
Studies show that glucosamine, an amino-sugar,
can help to repair cartilage and slow the
progression of osteoarthritis. Taking certain
vitamins, including C, D and E, may help as well.
Consult a physician or pharmacist about possible
interactions between any vitamins, supplements, and
prescription medications you are taking.
Moderation is the key.
Joints exist to allow the body to move. The body
likes to be in motion: that's why people who
exercise routinely tend to feel healthier. But too
much of a good thing can be damaging, especially for
people suffering from arthritis.
Sun Lakes has several facilities and excellent
fitness instructors who can recommend the proper
types of exercise, and set up a schedule for safe,
fun, physical activity. While the rest of the
country is hunkering down for winter, Phoenicians
can look forward to many months of mild temperatures
and sunshine. Take advantage of the perfect weather
and get moving. Your body will thank you for it.
For additional information on osteoarthritis, log
onto the Arthritis Foundation web site:
http://www.arthritis.org
. Information on chiropractic treatment for
arthritis is available on our web site:
http://www.robertsonfamilychiro.com .
Back to Chiropractic Resources
 Dr. Carson Robertson is in private practice at
Alpha Chiropractic. His clinic services the
chiropractic, massage therapy, and physiotherapy
needs of the Chandler, Ahwatukee, and Gilbert area.
He has a special interest in athletics, running, and
soft tissue injuries. Carson Robertson DC can be
reached at (480) 812-1800. |
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