Arthritis Is Disabling
Arthritis
Arthritis is a disabling disease that affects millions of Canadians. Common forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is inflammatory in nature and best to see a rheumatologist for care. Osteoarthritis on the other hand is degenerative in nature and can get progressively worse as time goes on.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that surrounds and cushions the ends of the bones wears down. Biomechanics often have a considerable impact on osteoarthritis development, and if addressed correctly, can be effective at reducing pain and stiffness. Arthritis can limit mobility, cause pain and reduce a person’s quality of life.
Additional Reading
Often, because movement causes pain, movement is avoided and as less movement occurs, the worse the osteoarthritis gets. Synovial fluid and hyaluronic acid are naturally produced by the body and helps to lubricate the joints and provide nutrition to the joint, however movement restriction can reduce the amount of synovial fluid that is pumped into the joint and therefore reduce the joint’s ability to heal – hence why movement is very important in preventing osteoarthritis from getting worse. Align Clinicians can analyze your movement, understand restrictions, and help you move better. Osteoarthritis in the feet, ankles, knees, and hips are often successful treated with conservative treatment approaches including proper footwear, custom orthotics, unloading braces, exercise, and manual therapy.
