Dr. Peter Lazarnick has made it his mission for over 45 years to educate patients about conditions like osteoarthritis and offer pain relief when they need it the most. Dr. Pete offers superior chiropractic care to Carrollton, GA, patients.
Defining Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a subcategory of arthritis. It is a degenerative disease affecting the joints of your musculoskeletal system. Patients often suffer from osteoarthritis in the hands, knees, and hips, but it may affect other areas of the body.
The primary symptoms of osteoarthritis are:
Painful joints making it harder to move around.
Stiffness, especially after a rest.
Swelling of the joints
The severity of osteoarthritis varies from patient to patient.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
You may begin to develop osteoarthritis for several reasons, but no definitive cause has been established. Factors that may predispose you to developing osteoarthritis include:
Unavoidable aging
Gender – women are more likely to develop arthritis post-menopause.
Osteoarthritis has a genetic component, meaning if close relatives develop osteoarthritis, you may do so too.
Obesity
Joint injuries and abnormalities.
How Do I Protect Myself From Osteoarthritis?
Specific factors that predispose you to osteoarthritis can’t be avoided. To protect yourself from osteoarthritis, bear this in mind:
Maintain a healthy diet and exercise. Some foods may make your osteoarthritis worse.
Speak to your healthcare provider about whether you need vitamin and mineral supplements.
Don’t ignore unusual symptoms or pain that begins to develop.
Exercise and stretch regularly to keep your body supple and healthy.
Dr. Pete, serving Carrollton, GA, can help you manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis, and preventative chiropractic supports natural interventions for better health and quality of life.
Likewise, spinal adjustments and manipulations can reduce lower back pain associated with osteoarthritis. Physical modalities help to mobilize your joints and improve circulation, which may reduce inflammation and swelling associated with osteoarthritis.
Ice pack cryotherapy can help mitigate the effects of an osteoarthritis attack when you have overdone an activity or struggle with repetitive motion strain. Finally, therapeutic exercise can help you strengthen your muscles and improve your range of movement.
Joint degeneration cannot be reversed. However, an integrative approach to your musculoskeletal and overall health can help to offset any symptoms you may experience and prevent more severe symptoms from developing.
Contact Us!
Dr. Lazarnick, or Dr. Pete as he is referred to affectionately, has provided Carrollton, GA, with unmatched chiropractic care since 1978. For advice on protecting yourself from the symptoms of osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions, call us today at 770-832-2226 to book your appointment.