OSTEOARTHRITIS VS OSTEOPOROSIS
I recently had a patient come into my office and ask me, “Dr. Nill, if I have osteoarthritis, will I get osteoporosis?” As I answered the question, I started to realize what an important and good question it was. Not to mention how confusing this issue can be. So I decided to take some time to enlighten you on which is what along with ways to prevent and treat each condition and their symptoms.
Osteoarthritis is considered an inflammatory condition (-itis means inflammation in Latin) of the joints (osteo- means bone). It is also known as “wear-and-tear” and “degenerative” arthritis. As we age, we lose the shock absorbing cartilage and eventually the joint spaces become narrower and narrower. Eventually the ligaments become lax and you get a bone rubbing on bone effect. This in-turn causes an irritation/inflammation reaction which results in instability and pain. A preventative tool for this is to take a supplement that will help aid the regeneration of cartilage. Glucosamine builds and maintains cartilage, tendons and other connective tissues in the body by acting as a building block for these materials and inhibiting enzymes that destroy cartilage. Glucosamine works by preventing the cartilage destruction, joint pain, swelling and loss of flexibility in a natural way. The symptoms can also be treated with chiropractic and physical therapy along with being active in our daily lives. Prescription and over the counter anti-inflammatories can be used for the pain but will only mask the symptoms. Sometimes, pain is good in a way because it tells our bodies not to over do things. The main objective is to keep the joints moving, take Glucosamine sulfate (which is available at Nill Family Chiropractic), and osteoarthritis can possibly be prevented. Otherwise, keep in mind that once you have arthritis, it cannot be reversed, but the symptoms can be treated.
Osteoporosis (Latin for porous bone) is caused by a difference in the rates of bone formation and bone breakdown. It is most common in older people but it can occur in anyone and at any age. Because of the porosity of the bones, they can become brittle and can break easily. It is most common in post-menopausal women. The loss of estrogen is what causes the increase in bone destruction and less bone formation. One should also make sure they have enough calcium in their diet along with maintaining joint mobility through exercise. For post-menopausal women, talk to your doctor about the most recent hormone replacement therapies available. Because it takes a 30-50% bone mass loss to be seen on x-rays, one should get checked with a bone densitometer for the best diagnosis. If you have osteoporosis, make sure you are on some type of medication for it.
I also wanted to let you know that we have a new promotion here at Nill Family Chiropractic and Wellness Center. From January through March, for any new/past patient who comes in for a treatment, a FREE 15 minute massage will be given. So come on in, even if you are in pain or not, and take advantage of this opportunity. Remember that chiropractic is good for not only treating pain but preventing it as well. Studies show that chiropractic can help the immune system and prevent other diseases like arthritis. We accept all insurance and if you’re a cash patient who doesn’t have insurance, or their insurance doesn’t cover chiropractic, call and ask how you can get 25% off of your bill.
www.glucosamine-arthritis.org/://www.arthritiseducation.com/learn_osvsos.htm.
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