Live Well With Arthritis
If you don’t already have osteoarthritis, it is almost a certainty that you will get it. Statistics show that about half the population have it at 40 years of age and that almost everyone over 60 is affected by it.
Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease, which is characterised by gradual damage and destruction of the joint cartilage. Symptoms of osteoarthritis vary depending of the joint affected.
Common Symptoms
HOW IS OSTEOARTHRITIS DIAGNOSED?
The diagnosis is made on the basis of an X-Ray examination. The appearance of cartilage thinning and the formation of bone changes is indicative of the disease. It is not possible to see the earliest changes of osteoarthritis on an X-Ray but we know that abnormal curves of the spine and abnormal joint position already within a few weeks begin to affect the cartilage adversely.
Treatment Options
Symptom Based
Condition Focussed Treatment
It is clear that a treatment approach, which aims to maintain the joints’ normal function and thereby delays the advancement of the disease process is to be preferred. Treatment should combine the following:
- Correction of the restricted joints with chiropractic treatment
- Massage
- Stretching & Exercise
- Glucosamine sulphate
The above treatment as a ‘package’ is an effective strategy aiming not only to minimise or remove pain, but also to achieve the best possible function of joints and muscles, and help prevent setbacks.