Once you reach a certain age, it becomes inevitable that you will develop some degree of spinal degenerative osteoarthritis. This is not to be confused with any of the rheumatoid arthritic conditions which are autoimmune problems. Osteoarthritis is what happens after yours of stress on your spine (and other joints). Some spines will “age” faster than others depending on your weight, you job, previous injuries and to some degree genetics.
Osteoarthritis has two components:
- DDD-Degenerative Disc Disease. This is where the spinal discs thin causing the nerve openings to become smaller, “stenosis”. Over time and if enough discs are affected, you can lose an inch or more in your heights.
- DJD-Degenerative Joint Disease. This is where the spinal vertebrae develop rough irregular edges and bone spurs. (DJD can affect any joint in the body.)
When the arthritic changes are minor, it may not yet be symptomatic but it indicates that this particular joint is starting to undergo remodeling stresses. Eventually the arthritic changes progress and your spine may become painful, have a loss of Range of motion and can cause nerve irritation.
The medical approach typically involves narcotic pain pills, anti-inflammatory medications and maybe PT. Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis in the sense that something can be done to correct the degenerative changes and make an x-ray look better, conservative treatments can cause significant improvement in functioning and pain relief. This includes gentle chiropractic manipulation, sometimes nutritional joint supplements, certain therapies including low level laser, exercises and lifestyle modification.
With 38 years of experience treating arthritic spines, we also understand that the care for an 80-year-old spine is different from treating a 28-year-old spine. Gentle chiropractic care can be safe and effective at any age and is often safer and more effective than the medical approach. The presence of arthritis can complicate other spinal conditions such as a back strain.
Tired of the pills and not functioning your best, call us today at 910-392-3333