Osteoarthritis (OA) or degenerative joint disease (DJD) is a progressive disorder of the joints caused by gradual loss of cartilage and resulting in the development of bony spurs and cysts at the margins of the joints.
It occurs most commonly after 40 years of age and develops gradually over a period of years affecting the neck, shoulder, lower back, knees, hips, and finger joints.
Osteoarthritis results from deterioration or loss of the cartilage that acts as a protective cushion between bones, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. As the cartilage is worn away, the bone forms spurs, areas of abnormal hardening, and fluid-filled pockets in the marrow known as subchondral cysts. As the disorder progresses, pain results from deformation of the bones and fluid accumulation in the joints.
Evidence suggests that abnormal anatomy (scoliosis, for example), joint deformity, past accidents, poor posture, obesity, improper diet, hereditary factors, certain activities (such as lifting weights), can contribute to the early development osteoarthritis.
The Doctor of Chiropractic can detect problems of the spine, called subluxations (small displacement of a vertebra), and through adjustments keep it healthy and free from interference. An adjustment is a quick and smooth movement that places the vertebrae in the correct position so that the nerve is no longer compressed and operates without interference.
The chiropractic adjustment for osteoarthritis pain helps restore normal movement of those displaced vertebrae, thereby helping optimal functioning of the entire body. These adjustments will delay the degeneration of articular cartilage.