Treatments for Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis causes the degeneration of joint cartilage. Discover how SageMED can help alleviate your arthritis pain and guide you back to the life you love.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
As the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis affects millions of people worldwide. The condition occurs when the cartilage that provides a smooth surface for joint motion deteriorates, causing bones to rub against each other. This friction leads to inflammation, pain, and the formation of bone spurs.
Who Is Affected by Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk:
Age: The risk increases with age due to cumulative joint wear and tear. Over time, the cartilage that cushions joints naturally deteriorates. People over 50 are more susceptible because their joints have endured more stress and micro-injuries throughout life.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, especially after age 50. Hormonal changes during menopause might contribute to cartilage loss, although the exact mechanisms are still being studied. Additionally, anatomical differences, such as broader hips and different knee alignment, can place additional stress on joints.
Joint Injuries: Previous injuries can contribute to cartilage breakdown. Fractures, ligament tears, or dislocations can damage the joint surface or alter joint mechanics, leading to accelerated wear and tear.
Repetitive Stress: Occupations or activities that place repeated stress on joints increase the risk. Jobs involving heavy lifting, kneeling, or repetitive motions (like construction work, farming, or typing) can strain joints over time, leading to cartilage degeneration.
Genetics: A family history may increase your susceptibility. Certain genetic factors can affect the quality of cartilage or the way bones fit together at a joint, making it more likely for osteoarthritis to develop.
Obesity: Excess weight adds significant stress to weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Increased body weight accelerates cartilage breakdown and exacerbates pain, making weight management crucial in osteoarthritis prevention and management.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Identifying symptoms early can lead to better management:
Joint Pain: Aching or sharp pain during or after movement.
Stiffness: Noticeable upon waking or after inactivity.
Tenderness: Discomfort when pressing on the joint.
Loss of Flexibility: Reduced range of motion.
Grating Sensation: Feeling or hearing a crunching noise with movement.
Bone Spurs: Extra bits of bone that feel like hard lumps around the joint.
Self-care options for Osteoarthritis
Managing osteoarthritis effectively involves proactive self-care strategies that can alleviate symptoms and enhance joint function. Regular low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling strengthen the muscles around your joints, reduce pain, and improve flexibility. Incorporating stretching routines and strength training can further support joint health.
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as excess pounds add stress to weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Even modest weight loss can lead to significant pain reduction and improved mobility. Adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats—can support overall well-being and may help decrease systemic inflammation.
Our Holistic Approach to Osteoarthritis Treatment
At SageMED, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our naturopathic clinic offers a comprehensive, personalized approach to help you manage osteoarthritis effectively.
Below are some of the specialized treatments we provide to help you effectively manage osteoarthritis:
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Regenerative Injection Therapy is a cutting-edge, non-surgical treatment that harnesses your body’s natural healing capabilities to repair and strengthen damaged joints. By administering injections of natural substances such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or dextrose solutions directly into the affected joints, Regenerative Injection Therapy promotes tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation, and alleviates pain.
Benefits of Regenerative Injection Therapy:Natural Healing: Stimulates the body’s own repair mechanisms.
Pain Reduction: Alleviates discomfort associated with joint movement.
Improved Mobility: Enhances joint stability and flexibility.
Minimally Invasive: Low risk of complications with minimal downtime.
While promising, the effectiveness of these treatments can vary based on the specific condition and individual response.
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Hormone Optimization at SageMED focuses on balancing your body's hormonal levels to support joint health and overall well-being. Hormonal imbalances can exacerbate osteoarthritis by increasing inflammation and weakening connective tissues. Our personalized hormone therapy plans aim to restore hormonal equilibrium, enhance the body's natural repair mechanisms, boost energy levels, and improve your quality of life. By addressing hormonal health, we help reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and promote sustained joint function.
Benefits of Hormone Optimization:Reduced Inflammation: May help lower inflammatory markers that contribute to joint pain.
Enhanced Tissue Repair: Supports the body's healing and regeneration processes.
Increased Energy: Boosts overall vitality and reduces fatigue associated with chronic pain.
Improved Mood and Well-being: Balances hormones to support mental and emotional health.
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Physical Therapy is a cornerstone of osteoarthritis management at SageMED. Our skilled physical therapists develop customized exercise programs tailored to your specific needs and limitations. These programs aim to strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints, increase flexibility, and improve overall mobility. Through a combination of targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education on proper movement techniques, our physical therapy sessions help reduce pain, prevent further joint damage, and enhance your ability to perform daily activities with ease.
Benefits of Physical Therapy:
Strengthened Muscles: Supports and stabilizes affected joints.
Increased Flexibility: Enhances range of motion and reduces stiffness.
Pain Management: Alleviates discomfort through targeted exercises and techniques.
Preventative Care: Reduces the risk of further joint damage and deterioration.
Request an appointment
Schedule an appointment with a SageMED osteoarthritis specialist today. If you have chronic pain or a musculoskeletal injury, regenerative injection therapy might be the right choice for you. Discover how our personalized approach can help restore your mobility and improve your quality of life. Please use the form below or text us at +1 425-679-6056 to find the best care plan tailored to your needs.
