What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?
It refers to a clinical syndrome of joint pain accompanied by varying degrees of functional limitation. It is the most common form of arthritis and one of the leading causes of pain and disability worldwide. The most commonly affected joints are the knees, hips and small joints of the hand. It can be diagnosed clinically without further testing (ex. x-rays) if a person is over 45 years of age, has activity-related joint pain and has either no morning joint-related stiffness or morning stiffness that lasts less than 30 minutes.
Common Myths
Contrary to popular belief, osteoarthritis is not caused by ageing and does not necessarily deteriorate. Many individuals think it inevitably progresses and cannot be treated but that is another common misconception. Also, there is often a poor link between visible changes on an X-ray and symptoms of osteoarthritis. Minimal changes can be associated with a lot of pain, or modest structural joint changes can occur while experiencing minimal symptoms.
How can chiropractors help?
Chiropractors can help individuals with OA by providing advice to stay active, reassurance, self-care advice and promoting return to work and normal activities. Exercise should be used as a core treatment irrespective of age, other conditions, pain severity or disability through muscle strengthening and general aerobic fitness. Exercise for knee and hip OA could include walking, strengthening, neuromuscular training, and aquatic exercise. Exercise is associated with better outcomes when supervised. Manipulation and stretching should be considered in addition to core treatments, particularly for osteoarthritis of the hip. Chiropractors can discuss appropriate footwear such as those with shock-absorbing properties or assess for orthotics, bracing and various joint supports. We can also discuss interventions to achieve weight loss for those who are overweight.
References
1. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Osteoarthritis: care and management in adults. Clinical Guideline [Internet]. 2020 Dec 11. Available from: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg177
2. Kolasinski S.L. et al. 2019 American College of Rheumatology/Arthritis Foundation Guideline for the Management of Osteoarthritis of the Hand, Hip, and Knee. Arthritis Care & Research [Internet]. 2020 Feb; 72(2): 149-162. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/art.41142
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