Osteoarthritis Treatment in Fairfax
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis. It is a degenerative joint disease where the cartilage (protecting tissue) wears down over time. It can affect your hands, spine, knee, and hips. It causes stiffness and knee pain that affects many people in our community.
Ignoring your osteoarthritis for a long time can lead to many complications such as deformities, unstable joints, excruciating pain, and in rare cases, disability.
Many people stay active and manage their symptoms well with early care, regular movement, and a treatment plan that aligns with their needs. Improved function also leads to better tolerance for daily activities.
If you are suffering from osteoarthritis, our team at Active Family Wellness can help you. Contact us at (703) 373-7113 or visit our office to see how chiropractic care works.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The symptoms of osteoarthritis may begin as mild. It tends to have an increasing effect over time. Symptoms include the following:
- Joint pain in these locations; hands, hips, knees, neck, and lower back.
- Stiffness and cracking.
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Difficulty in walking and climbing stairs
Causes of Osteoarthritis
These are the factors that cause osteoarthritis:
- Age: it is most common in the older population. The frequency increases with your age.
- Family: Research has shown that it is hereditary.
- Gender: After the age of 50, it’s more likely in women than men.
- Injuries from accidents can be a major cause.
- The nature of your work.
- Obesity
Temporary Pain Relief for Osteoarthritis
The following practices will help with pain relief for osteoarthritis:
- Hot water bottle or a warm compress on the affected area.
- Ice pack compression on the affected area. It will ease the pain and also reduce inflammation.
- Epsom salt bath. It helps to reduce pain and inflammation. It can be used as frequently as you desire (two cups in a hot bath).
The use of some support devices, such as braces, along with physical therapy and over-the-counter medications, may also help with temporary pain.
Treatment For Osteoarthritis
The proper treatment of osteoarthritis follows these stages carefully:
Diagnosis
During your initial consultation, we will closely examine the affected area, checking for signs such as tenderness, flexibility, swelling, and redness. Imaging tests such as X-rays and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be carried out. X-rays show the bone spurs, while an MRI shows the soft tissues and cartilage.
Treatment
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, but treatment can help manage pain and improve your movement. Your medical doctor may recommend medications for pain and, in severe cases, injections or surgery.
Chiropractic treatment for osteoarthritis includes adjustments, soft tissue therapy, lifestyle guidance, and posture correction to support joint mobility and reduce strain on the affected joints.
Therapy
The physical therapist will suggest exercises and workouts that will help strengthen the muscles around the affected area to aid your movements.
Book an Appointment
Please use the booking tool below to request an appointment. Our patient care coordinator will call you shortly to finalize your appointment.
If you don’t find slots for the appointment, please call us directly at (703) 373-7113.
How Do We Treat Osteoarthritis?
- (703) 373-7113
Let Us Help treat your osteoarthritis
Do not ignore your osteoarthritis, it can become worse over time. It’s important to consult with the doctor and understand the root cause of osteoarthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Osteoarthritis
Does Medical Insurance Cover osteoarthritis treatment?
Medicare and many other insurance companies normally cover osteoarthritis treatments. Insurance companies do so because our osteoarthritis treatment is cost-effective with a high rate of recovery. Original Medicare (Part A & Part B) covers necessary medical services and provisions for osteoarthritis treatment.
What is the difference between osteoarthritis and arthritis?
Arthritis is the general name for the different types of arthritis, including; osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is why osteoarthritis is often interchanged with arthritis.
Is osteoarthritis hereditary?
Osteoarthritis can have a hereditary component caused by specific gene mutations. This form can appear earlier in life and may progress more quickly than typical age-related osteoarthritis. About 40 – 65% of osteoarthritis has a genetic component. However, if your parents, siblings, or other extended relatives have cases of joint pain, then you are likely to have it.
What is the best vitamin for arthritis?
The following are the best vitamins to reduce the risk of having arthritis or helping your arthritis condition:
- Curcumin ( turmeric root), which has anti-inflammatory features.
- Vitamin D & E
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
- Boswellia & Devil’s claw
- ASU, Fish oil & Green tea
Can chiropractors help with inflammation?
Chiropractic care may help manage pain and stiffness linked to inflammation by improving joint mobility and reducing muscle tension around the affected area. To do this, chiropractors use adjustments, soft tissue therapy, laser therapy, and targeted exercises.
Can Massage Help Osteoarthritis?
Massage therapy may help manage some osteoarthritis symptoms. It can ease tension in the muscles around the affected joints, which may reduce stiffness and support a better range of motion. It may also improve circulation around the joints, which can help with swelling.
What are the 4 stages of osteoarthritis?
STAGE 1 – MINOR
- The least painful stage.
- Little wear and tear of the joints.
- Little or no affected parts.
- You may be advised to change your exercise routine and take supplements.
STAGE 2 – MILD
- Noticeable bone spurs in X-rays.
- Stiffness and crunching sensation
- Uncomfortability
- The use of braces or gripping tools is suggested by the doctor.
STAGE 3 – MODERATE
- Damaged cartilage.
- Inflammation
- Difficulty in movement.
- The use of over-the-counter pain relievers.
- They use injections such as; cortisone and hyaluronic acid.
- The case is becoming severe.
STAGE 4 – SEVERE
- The most advanced stage.
- Pain is often more noticeable at this stage.
- The cartilage is severely worn down.
- Surgery may be considered.
How do you stop osteoarthritis from progressing?
The progression of osteoarthritis can be controlled through the following:
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Controlling blood sugar.
- Getting physical therapy and exercise.
- Choosing a healthy lifestyle.
Will osteoarthritis affect my mobility?
Osteoarthritis does not happen suddenly. It’s a continuous gradual growth process that, if not controlled, damage is prone to occur, such as deformities. Osteoarthritis, in a very rare case, makes one crippled. Most people with osteoarthritis stay mobile, especially with appropriate care and lifestyle changes.
What is the latest treatment for osteoarthritis?
Early osteoarthritis can often be managed with approaches like chiropractic care, therapeutic exercises, or physical therapy. The right treatment depends on the severity and stage of arthritis, and more severe cases may require surgery. Consult our chiropractors to identify your condition and decide on an appropriate plan.
