Put simply, osteoarthritis is the technical word for ‘wear and tear’ or the even more hideous words, ‘getting old’! Everyone eventually gets it and its pretty rare not to find it on an x-ray in anyone over the age of 50.
Osteoarthritis can occur throughout the body but is most commonly found in the big weight-bearing joints of the hips and knees, as well as the spine, and also the much used joints of the fingers. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort and stiffness that is generally worse after rest and eases once you start moving again, all the way up to severe pain and disability. The symptoms are generally worse in the cold and by being over-weight (especially if the hip and knees are affected).
Certainly, some people seem to get is worse than other. To this we could blame bad genes or even more likely, how they have used (or abused) their body’s over a lifetime. Its also been found that an injury to a joint often makes that joint more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis sooner.
One of the most common side effects of having a painful arthritic joint is that the surrounding muscles tighten to protect the joint further. Unfortunately this can put more pressure on the joint surfaces, and thus lead to more pain. In many cases osteopathic treatment can help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis by addressing the muscle tightness that often develops. To find out how we can help you please call us a the clinic today on 9948 9934.
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