Arthritis typically begins to develop in most people between the ages of 40 and 60, although it can occur at any age. Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common type, is more likely to start after age 50. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), another common form, usually appears between 30 and 60. Early-onset arthritis can occur in younger individuals due to factors like joint injuries or genetic predispositions.
Osteoarthritis is also known as joint degeneration. Any person over the age of 30 has some joints in their body that are beginning to show wear and tear. This is the most common cause of degeneration. There are several ways that degeneration may accelerate, including trauma, poor diet, disease or illness, medications, repetitive stress and/or poor posture.
The most common cause of early degeneration of the spine is subluxation. A subluxation, is basically defined as “a partial dislocation.” In other words, the two bones that form the joint are still partially in contact with each other. The bones of the joint are misaligned and thus will begin to wear out sooner. As the cartilage wears out, the joint begins to narrow, which then leads to bone spurs and thickening or calcification of the ligaments.
These worn-out joints can begin to swell and become painful. More commonly, the degeneration begins as a feeling of stiffness, tightness, and maybe a dull ache. Rarely is it bad enough to seek treatment. The most common treatment of these symptoms is OTC medications. Drugs, however, only serve to mask the symptoms and advance the degeneration of the joints.
The result of the degenerative joint is generally surgery – that is, shoulder, hip and knee replacement surgeries. While spine surgery is an option, we recommend that everyone have their spines checked regularly for subluxations and the beginning signs of degeneration. Manipulation of the spine can help spine disc degeneration problems, ease pain and avoid surgery.
The Family Chiropractic Center recommends treatment as soon as your joints become painful and stiff. Don’t let osteoarthritis stop you from living your life. We can help you live your life to the fullest.
