To prevent osteoarthritis, it's essential to adopt proactive measures that mitigate the effects of wear and tear on the joints. Regular, moderate exercise helps maintain joint flexibility and strength, while weight loss can alleviate pressure on weight-bearing joints like the knees. Wearing appropriate footwear and rotating shoes frequently can also reduce joint strain. Seeking regular chiropractic treatment is another valuable strategy in the prevention of osteoarthritis.
In our daily lives, whether engaged in physical activities like running a marathon, tending to the yard, performing household chores, or spending hours at a desk, we subject our bodies to strain. The discomfort experienced, such as the ache felt after a day's work or prolonged yard work, stems from inflammation caused by small tears in the muscles and joints. Over time, this inflammation leads to fibrosis in the joint capsule and arthrogenic contracture, resulting in a general stiffening of the joint [1].
The release of inflammatory products is a natural response to combat infections introduced from cuts and injuries. However, when inflammation persists, it can exacerbate damage by attacking the body and joint capsule itself. Thus, the longer inflammation persists, the greater the damage inflicted on the body.
Multiple studies demonstrate the effectiveness of chiropractic manipulation in stopping osteoarthritis progression. For instance, one study using rabbits as models analyzed how adjustments impacted surgically induced arthritis in the knee joint. The findings revealed improvements in bone, cartilage, and joint capsule health following adjustments [2]. Another study was conducted to assess the effects of spinal fixation on lumbar spinal joints in laboratory rats. Fixation, which restricts normal movement, was simulated in 64 rats using a specially engineered device, while 24 rats served as a control group. Results showed that fixated spinal joints degenerated over time, leading to calcification, spur formation, and disc dehydration. The severity of degeneration increased with the duration of fixation. The study suggests that maintaining optimal joint function may help reduce degenerative joint diseases like arthritis [3].
Given the daily strains our bodies endure, it's crucial to address inflammation in the joints. Maintaining a regular chiropractic treatment schedule tailored to your age, activity level, and health history can play a vital role in addressing this need. It helps prevent a significant drawback of aging: the progressive decrease in flexibility, which leads to stiffness and pain throughout the body.
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