Osteoarthritis New Jersey

Osteoarthritis New Jersey

While chiropractic treatment is often associated with back pain, there are other problems that can be treated by a doctor osteoarthritis New Jersey residents trust at Northeast Spine & Wellness Center. These conditions may range from mental stress to physical pain, though patients can obtain relief with the right adjustments. Patients who are looking for symptom relief for the following health-related conditions can rely on our team for help.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease, or DJD. This is the most common type of arthritis in the world. Osteoarthritis develops because of age, though other causes can cause it to occur in younger people. The changes in osteoarthritis occur slowly over years, but there are exceptions like with everything. Inflammation and injury to the joint can cause bony changes, cause the tendons and ligaments to deteriorate, and a breakdown in cartilage, and from all this results pain, swelling and deformity of the joint.

There are two main types of osteoarthritis, primary and secondary. Primary is the most common type of osteoarthritis and is typically generalized. It affects fingers, thumbs, spines, knees, hips and the big toes on the feet. Secondary happens when you have a pre-existing joint abnormality, such as injury, trauma or repetitive sports-related injuries, inflammatory arthritis like psoriatic, gout, or rheumatoid, infectious arthritis, genetic joint disorders like Ehlers-Danlos, or other joint disorders.

Cartilage is a firm but rubbery connective tissue that is extremely flexible, it covers the ends of most bones in normal joints. It’s made up of water and protein, and it’s there to reduce friction in the joints and be a “shock absorber” so that you’re less likely to get hurt while doing things like running, jumping, or other hard things. This shock absorbing quality lets the normal cartilage change shape when compressed and then regain its shape. The body does not grow new cartilage, however, when there is an injury present. Cartilage is “avascular” and that means there are no blood vessels in it, so healing processes are very slow.

Osteoarthritis affects 80% of older adults, aged 55 and older show evidence of osteoarthritis in x-rays. It is estimated that 60% of the 80% experience symptoms, and that 240 million adults have osteoarthritis worldwide where they experience symptoms. This number includes 30 million or more United States adults, and there’s evidence that post-menopausal women have an increased incidence of knee osteoarthritis when compared to men. This is estimated to be because of the decreased estrogen that post-menopausal women produce causes an increase in osteoarthritis in these women because estrogen is a protective hormone when it comes to encouraging bone health.

Because osteoarthritis is a heterogeneous disease, it is not only caused by wear and tear but also by other contributing factors. Some of those factors, like some instances of obesity (but not all), can be changed. Other instances, such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia, cannot be changed and are a permanent part of a person’s existence. That’s why you should know how you can treat osteoarthritis, so that your life isn’t about pain. Sometimes osteoarthritis is even hereditary, especially when you’re diagnosed with nodular osteoarthritis of the hands, and of course we’ve discussed how it’s related as a secondary disorder regarding hypermobility and various mobility disorders.

Remember, osteoarthritis pain is not sudden, but it develops and worsens over time, so if you are finding yourself to have worsening pain you should reach out to a chiropractor who may be able to diagnose and help you with your pain, without relying heavily on medications.

As a doctor may tell you during a consult, osteoarthritis happens when the joint cartilage and underlying bone degenerate. Those who are seeking treatment that osteoarthritis New Jersey patients can depend on are encouraged to contact Northeast Spine & Wellness Center as soon as possible. We can perform an examination of the joint affected by osteoarthritis and let you know whether your condition can benefit from chiropractic adjustments.

What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis of the knee is a condition in which the cartilage in the knee degenerates and breaks down. Also, abnormal bony growth may develop with this condition. These are called bone spurs or osteophytes.

This degenerative wear and tear can lead to pain, stiffness, and abnormal joint function. The progress of osteoarthritis is gradual. Symptoms may come and go, and the condition can worsen over numerous years. Pain can be a primary symptom in patients suffering from osteoarthritis in the knee pain. 

A doctor for osteoarthritis New Jersey residents trust for care may refer to this condition as “wear and tear arthritis.” It affects all ages but is particularly prevalent in women over the age of 55. Patients with osteoarthritis typically experience pain that increases when they are active but the pain may get less intense upon resting. There is likely stiffness in the knee, especially when getting up from a sitting or lying position. Osteoarthritis patients may hear a cracking, popping, clicking, or creaking sound when they move their knees.

Signs You May Have Osteoarthritis 

Since osteoarthritis is a condition that comes on gradually, you may not think about the symptoms you are experiencing initially. However, over time they will likely become worse and may inhibit your ability to function like you once did. If you think you are experiencing osteoarthritis in New Jersey, you should consider contacting Northeast Spine and Wellness Center to help you manage your condition. Consider giving us a call today to set up an appointment, especially if you answer yes to the following questions:

• Do your joints feel painful? Joints with osteoarthritis may become painful to move with or following activity. 
• Are your joints tender? Your joints might feel tender when you push in areas in and around the joint.
• Do you experience stiffness after resting? You might not be able to move the affected joint as well, especially after sleeping or sitting for long periods of time.
• Does the joint swell after activity? Osteoarthritis can lead to damage to the cartilage, ligaments and more around the joint that results in swelling. 
• Are you unable to move the affected joint as well as you once did? People with osteoarthritis often lose the range of motion in the affected joint. 
• Do you feel a grating sensation? You may feel a grating sensation in the joint or hear a popping noise upon movement. 

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in your body, but it most commonly affects the spine, hips, knees, and hands. As trusted providers for those suffering from osteoarthritis in New Jersey, we understand that osteoarthritis can be debilitating. Our staff at Northeast Spine and Wellness Center are ready to provide you the care you need to help you live a better life. 

Managing Your Osteoarthritis 

Successfully managing osteoarthritis is a multi-pronged approach, and our center provides many of the therapies used for treatment. Chiropractic care can be a beneficial tool to help relieve your symptoms. When people typically think of chiropractors, they think of people experiencing back pain. While this is true, chiropractors take a holistic approach to the body and are trained to provide benefits beyond the spine. They can help to realign your body. Realignment makes adjustments so that you are correctly using your body, which can sometimes relieve pressure on the joints with osteoarthritis. 

In addition, our clinic offers physical therapy, LightForce laser therapy, and provides pain management. Physical therapy can strengthen the muscles around the joint, allowing you to lead a more active lifestyle, an important factor in managing osteoarthritis. When chiropractic care and physical therapy are combined with other treatment options such as LightForce laser therapy, steroid injections, and other forms of pain management, the effects can be powerful. 

Which is why you should call us today to learn what we can do for you. If you are seeking relief from your osteoarthritis in New Jersey, don’t wait any longer. Set up an appointment with our staff at Northwest Spine and Wellness center so you can start receiving the care you deserve and live a better life moving forward.  

Treatments for Osteoarthritis 

There are treatments available that can help reduce the pain and help you move better. Before you start any treatment you should talk to your medical provider to ensure it is in your best interest. 

Medications 

Medications that can help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms, like pain, include: 

• Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen or known as Tylenol has been shown to help some people who have mild to moderate pain. Taking more than the recommended dose of acetaminophen can cause liver damage. 

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium when taken in the recommended dose can help relieve osteoarthritis pain. There are stronger ones that are available by prescription that your doctor will have to go over with you. However, there are some hefty side effects like stomach upset, cardiovascular problems, bleeding problems, and liver and kidney damage. There are some gels of NSAIDs that can be applied to the skin over the joint that has fewer side effects. 

• Duloxetine: Normally this is used as an antidepressant but this medication has been approved to treat chronic pain as well. 

Therapy 

If you don’t want to take medications then therapy is also a valid option. Types of therapy that can happen are as follows: 

• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help show you exercises to strengthen the muscles around your joint. This can help increase your flexibility and rescue your pain in the long run. Regular gentle exercise that you can do on your own, such as swimming or walking, can be effective as well. 

• Occupational therapy: An occupational therapist can help you discover ways to do everyday tasks without the extra stress on your already painful joint. For instance, a toothbrush with a larger grip could help make brushing your teeth easier. A bench in the shower could help relieve the pain of standing if you have knee osteoarthritis. 

• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): This uses a low-voltage electrical current to relieve pain. It is a short-term pain relief for some people with knee or hip osteoarthritis but when used with physical therapy it can help provide more relief for longer. 

• Movement therapy: Things like Tai chi and yoga are more gentle exercises and stretches that involve deep breathing. Many people use these forms of therapy to reduce stress in their lives but also it can be used to help reduce pain. Keeping the joints moving and flexible can help improve movement. 
• Hot and cold: Hot and cold therapy has been shown to relieve pain and swelling in your joints. Heat can help muscles relax and ease the pain. Cold can relieve muscle ache safer exercise and decrease muscle spasms. 

Osteoarthritis New Jersey Infographic

How Osteoarthritis Affects Your Life

Osteoarthritis is a painful condition. While most common in older people, it can affect anyone at any age. There are many effects of osteoarthritis, both physical and mental.

Decreased Activity

When dealing with the pain of osteoarthritis in New Jersey, you may find it more difficult to do all of the activities you used to enjoy. If osteoarthritis is preventing you from enjoying your usual activities, it is time to seek treatment from Northeast Spine & Wellness Center. Physical activity is healthy and can be highly beneficial to people with osteoarthritis, so talk with a doctor about how you can stay active while managing your condition.

Weight Gain

Many people experience weight gain when osteoarthritis forces them to decrease their physical activity. Unfortunately, this weight gain can also put increased stress on the joints, resulting in a self-perpetuating cycle of pain, inactivity and weight gain. When seeking treatment for osteoarthritis in New Jersey, ask your doctor for advice on appropriate nutrition and preventing weight gain. A chiropractic adjustment may also help decrease your pain and make exercise easier for you.

Social Isolation

When osteoarthritis pain becomes severe, it can be difficult to leave the house and socialize. It may be harder to take part in group activities like sports, dance and music. While your friends and family may try to be supportive, they may struggle to grasp the impact your condition has on your life. They may not understand why you can’t do all of the things you used to do, and they may not know how to support you.

If your social life is suffering due to osteoarthritis, talk to a doctor at Northeast Spine & Wellness Center. Not only can they suggest treatment options to help you get back to your normal activities, but they may also be able to help you understand your condition better so you can explain it to those close to you.

Depression and Anxiety

Many people living with osteoarthritis in New Jersey experience depression, anxiety or a combination of the two. This can be caused by many factors, including:

• Chronic pain
• Loss of mobility
• Fears about the progression of the condition
• Loss of activities and hobbies
• Social isolation
• Frustration at trying to find treatment

Fortunately, help is available. Northeast Spine & Wellness Center can work with you to find a treatment plan that manages your osteoarthritis and improves your quality of life. Chiropractic adjustments can help significantly with pain and mobility and improve your overall wellness.

Common Myths About Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common condition affecting people across age groups and various ways. However, despite its prevalence, there are still many myths about osteoarthritis that can confuse people who experience the condition. Here are four myths about osteoarthritis you should be aware of.

Myth: Only Older People Get Osteoarthritis

While older people are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, younger adults can also develop osteoarthritis in New Jersey. Assuming that only older people have this condition may prevent younger people from seeking medical care for their arthritis. Northeast Spine & Wellness Center can address symptoms of osteoarthritis for patients of all ages. Factors such as genetics, weight and lifestyle can all influence the development of arthritis, which is primarily caused by wear and tear on the joints.

Myth: Osteoarthritis Can’t Be Prevented

Some people believe that osteoarthritis in New Jersey is an inevitable part of aging and thus cannot be prevented. However, many older people never experience arthritis. By contrast, some younger ones do. Maintaining an active lifestyle and healthy weight can help you keep your body strong and reduce strain on your joints, which decreases your chances of developing arthritis. Furthermore, if you have arthritis already, changing your lifestyle can help you avoid more severe complications.

Myth: Exercise Worsens Osteoarthritis

While repetitive wear on the joints can cause osteoarthritis in New Jersey, movement and exercise play an important role in treating osteoarthritis symptoms and preventing the conditioning from worsening. You may need to rest your joints initially, but physical activity can help you keep your joints flexible and stable so that you can recover and reduce symptoms of pain. Also, if excess body weight contributes to your osteoarthritis symptoms, you may need to exercise to help you reduce the strain on your joints. Northeast Spine & Wellness Center can help you determine which exercises and activities are helpful for your arthritis.

Myth: Everyone is Equally Susceptible

Anyone can develop osteoarthritis, but some are more susceptible to developing the condition than others. For example, women tend to experience osteoarthritis in New Jersey more than men, and clinicians believe hormones may play a role. Furthermore, we know that older people are more likely to have arthritis than the young. Carrying excess body fat can strain certain joints, making some forms of osteoarthritis more likely to develop. In addition, having a sedentary lifestyle weakens your muscles and joints, facilitating inflammation in the joints. Also, some people seem to be genetically vulnerable to osteoarthritis. Finally, certain professions and hobbies can cause injuries that lead to osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis Do’s and Dont’s

Osteoarthritis is a pretty common condition, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a lot of questions or misunderstandings surrounding it. If you have osteoarthritis in New Jersey, here are some dos and don’ts you should follow.

Do Maintain a Healthy Weight

Though this is sometimes easier said than done, it is important to maintain a healthy weight if you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Too much weight can put excessive pressure on joints that are already stressed and painful. If you need to lose a few excess pounds to feel your best, it’s wise to do so in a safely and healthfully.

Do Consume a Healthy Diet

Your bones need proper nutrition to stay as strong as possible. Instead of consuming a diet high in processed foods and junk food, eat a diet that’s rich in fruits and vegetables, healthy whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. The vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients you get from this type of diet will go a long way toward improving your bone health.

Do Apply Ice, Elevation, and Compression to Your Affected Joints

Ice, elevation, and compression can all help you soothe aching joints from osteoarthritis in New Jersey. It’s also important to rest your affected joints regularly so they can heal from the pressures of life. Regular chiropractic adjustments and treatments from Northeast Spine & Wellness Center may also help relieve some of the pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis.

Do Exercise Regularly

Though you should be careful when exercising, regular activity is important for maintaining good bone health (and overall health). During your next appointment at Northeast Spine & Wellness Center, ask us for tips about exercises you can do without harming your joints further.

Don’t Participate in Extreme Exercises

We’ve established that exercise is good for people with osteoarthritis in New Jersey, but it’s important not to get carried away. Extreme exercises such as training for a marathon or doing long jumping are a bad idea for anyone with joint pain and inflammation.

Don’t Drink or Smoke

If you like to drink and smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your osteoarthritis symptoms. Drinking and smoking both harm the joints and can make your osteoarthritis symptoms worse.

Don’t Ignore Your Symptoms

Ignoring symptoms of osteoarthritis won’t make them go away. On the contrary, your symptoms are likely to become worse if you don’t seek treatment. Getting the treatment you need may not only minimize your symptoms but also help you avoid further joint complications due to neglect.

When to Seek Help for Knee Osteoarthritis

Minor pain or chronic discomfort may necessitate further evaluation by a knee care professional. Plus, the appropriate treatment program can support healthy joint function and may minimize or halt the progression of osteoarthritis symptoms. 

New and innovative treatments for knee pain have been developed in the last decade, with even more non-invasive options on the horizon. If you fear knee replacement surgery, we can discuss some of these cutting edge pain relief treatments and recommend those that are appropriate for you.

Contact a Chiropractor to Get Started

You may be surprised to find out that there is a treatment option in Clark, NJ for osteoarthritis, anxiety, headaches, and more. It is important to us patients know that in addition to neck and backaches, a chiropractor can treat a variety of issues. Those who are interested in treatment near New Jersey for osteoarthritis and other conditions of the musculoskeletal system must contact us at Northeast Spine & Wellness Center today.

Osteoarthritis Treatment in New Jersey

When you are looking for someone to help with your Osteoarthritis New Jersey treatment, you know you can rely on our team. Each part of your body plays an important role but many people do not give their knees enough credit. You need them for walking, running, jumping, standing, climbing, driving, and even sitting. When you have osteoarthritis, you can begin to feel the effects in almost any activity you do. Millions of Americans are suffering from osteoarthritis but you can see how our chiropractic care can help you. For more information on our New Jersey osteoarthritis treatment, please give us a call. 

Determining the Cause

We believe in fighting the root of the problem, not just curing the symptoms. While it is true that conventional medication is right in certain circumstances, we prefer to see how natural remedies can treat you first. In some cases, osteoarthritis may be caused by back and hip misalignments. Our team is trained to identify areas of the body that can contribute to this pain and help realign them so your whole body is in better working order. 

We also believe that physical therapy can help you recover after you have been experiencing symptoms for a period of time. Natural remedies may be the first and only option you need before turning to risky surgeries and medications.

Get Treatment for Your Osteoarthritis New Jersey Relies On!

If you want to see how we can help with our New Jersey osteoarthritis treatment, please give our office a call today!

Seeing Your Chiropractor for Osteoarthritis of the Spine

If you’re suffering with osteoarthritis in New Jersey, Northeast Spine & Wellness Center can help ease your pain.

Because osteoarthritis is the loss of cartilage between the joints of your body, it can be extremely painful, and may even limit how much you can move. Osteoarthritis can affect any of your joints, and anywhere bones can potentially rub against other bones. This means the back, as well.

If you have osteoarthritis of the spine, you may be even more desperate for help. There are two types of spinal osteoarthritis: Lumbar, which affects your lower back; and Cervical, which affects your upper back. In both cases, you can experience pain and loss of movement, made more serious because of how integral the spine is to movement and everyday activities.

Fortunately, a chiropractor can help ease your osteoarthritis pain. And they can do a lot more than that.

Osteoarthritis FAQs

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis refers to a type of arthritis that causes cartilage at the end of the bones to wear down. It can affect many joints, including the knee, hips and spine. Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, reduced flexibility, stiffness and swelling.

Who Is Affected By Arthritis?

Adults of all ages can develop arthritis. However, it is more common among senior citizens.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

The direct cause of osteoarthritis isn’t exactly clear, but certain factors can increase your risk of developing the condition. Osteoarthritis is more common among the elderly, overweight people, those with previous joint injuries and people with a genetic predisposition of the disease.

What Can a Chiropractor Do for My Osteoarthritis?

You might be under the impression that a chiropractor is all about aggressive joint-popping – the exact sort of thing you don’t want for your osteoarthritis. However, chiropractors have different techniques and methods that vary depending on your personal needs. If you seek chiropractic help for your osteoarthritis, you can expect much gentler treatment.

A chiropractor will take down a detailed medical history so they can understand the extent of your pain and how long you’ve been dealing with osteoarthritis. They’ll also perform a detailed physical to get an idea of where to begin. And finally, a chiropractor may take x-rays to see what joints need help the most.

When you see a chiropractor in New Jersey for osteoarthritis, you aren’t necessarily setting yourself up for the joint-popping you see on TV. Instead, you can expect slow manipulation of your joints and tissue, and possibly even ultrasound or cold laser techniques to target the source of any inflammation.

A chiropractor can also see how your spine is affecting the movement of your other joints. You’d be surprised to know this, but a chiropractor’s work doesn’t stop at your back – especially if you’re experiencing joint pain because of osteoarthritis. If you’re experiencing pain because of osteoarthritis, a chiropractor can focus on the tissue surrounding the affected joints, and can help your joints work together again.

What Can Cause Osteoarthritis?

You may be wondering what is causing your osteoarthritis, wondering if a sudden injury caused it to happen, or wondering if you are simply getting old. Our chiropractors know that there are many reasons that osteoarthritis can occur and get worse. Some of these are:

• Your Age. As noted above, many people who get older begin experiencing osteoarthritis symptoms. In fact, it is one of the most common causes. 

• Your Fitness Level. We have seen that many of our clients who suffer from osteoarthritis in NJ, were highly active, playing in certain sports like running or soccer. 

• Your Weight. The bigger you are, the more weight and pressure is placed on your knees. 
• An Illness. If you have suffered from certain types of illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis or metabolic disorders, you may be more at risk of getting osteoarthritis. 

You may want to know how the chiropractic team at our office can help you when you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in New Jersey. 

What Treatment Options Are Available for Osteoarthritis?

While there is not a cure yet for osteoarthritis, there are several treatment options that can help you manage the condition. Medications, for example, can help alleviate the pain associated with osteoarthritis. Your doctor may also recommend attending physical therapy. A licensed therapist can teach you different exercises to strengthen the affected joint, ultimately increasing flexibility and relieving pain.

If your osteoarthritis is more severe and doesn’t respond to typical treatments, joint replacement surgery may be a good option. During the procedure, a surgeon will remove the damaged joint and replace it with an artificial one.

How Can I Manage Osteoarthritis at Home?

There are several lifestyle changes you can make to make your osteoarthritis in New Jersey more manageable. For one thing, you can participate in low-impact exercises, like swimming and walking, to strengthen your joints and increase flexibility. Although physical activity might not sound appealing when you have osteoarthritis, it can help your symptoms tremendously. Applying heat to the joint may also help relieve pain.

If you are currently overweight, losing several pounds can help improve your arthritis symptoms. Excess weight puts a lot of stress on your joints, increasing your pain. If you lose weight through diet and exercise, you may be surprised at how much better you feel.

If you are looking for treatment for osteoarthritis in New Jersey then turn to our staff at Northwest Spine and Wellness center for more information. 

Get Osteoarthritis Help From Northeast Spine & Wellness Center

At Northeast Spine & Wellness Center, you can expect the best chiropractic care for your osteoarthritis needs. Whether your osteoarthritis is directly affecting your spine, or is based more in other joints, we can work closely with you to develop a plan that works so you can ease your pain.

Osteoarthritis is extremely painful, but it doesn’t have to be. With proper chiropractic care, you can learn to cope with your osteoarthritis, and can experience a reduction in pain that can get you back to living your best life. Through gentle chiropractic care and detailed attention to your specific case, Northeast Spine & Wellness Center can help you find the best way forward through your osteoarthritis pain.

If you’re experiencing osteoarthritis in New Jersey, reach out to Northeast Spine and Wellness Center today, and see how we can make a difference!

Knee osteoarthritis can lead to excruciating knee pain. Usually, the onset of arthritic knee pain comes on gradually and can have ever-increasing levels of stiffness and swelling. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritic knee problem. It is a condition that the knee doctors osteoarthritis New Jersey residents trust for quality care at Northeast Spine & Wellness Center treat on a regular basis.

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