Is Osteoarthritis tarnishing the golden years?
Arthritis Overview
Did you know that there are more than 100 types of arthritis? Common arthritis symptoms of inflammation,
pain, and stiffness are usually caused by degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis). Other types of arthritis
include rheumatoid arthritis and gout. No matter which type of arthritis you have, you need an accurate
diagnosis before your doctor can recommend a program for treatment.
The fastest growing segment of the U.S. population is over the age of 85. With over 100,000 people over the age
of 100 in this country, seniors find themselves living much longer than they may have long ago anticipated.
I have a patient, a very feisty elderly woman similar in demeanor to Betty Davis if you can picture it. She
recently came into my office, sat on the table and said Doc, these are supposed to be my golden years. I feel like
rust. If only I were Dorothy, could whip out the oil can, collect her co-pay, and send her merrily on her way.
Maybe even with a skip in her step. Such a solution doesn't exactly exist but, as a Doctor of Chiropractic, I know
that I can help.
The primary contributor to the "rusty" feeling is osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. This degenerative condition not only causes joint pain,
swelling, and stiffness, but significantly decreases mobility and robs individuals of their independence.
Interestingly, osteoarthritis is caused by joint disuse, not overuse as is commonly believed. Seniors' achy joints
are not calling for rest, but for mobility. There is truth in the saying, "use it or lose it". Moderate stretching,
cardiovascular activity, and lifting light weights can be beneficial. Maintaining a healthy weight and correct
posture are also helpful.
These measures, alongside regular chiropractic treatment, can make a significant difference in both preventing and
treating symptoms of osteoarthritis. A chiropractor's removal of spinal misalignments through periodic spinal
manipulation increases mobility, decreases pain and improves quality of life. There are a variety of low force
chiropractic techniques that can maximize results with minimal intervention. Studies indicate that spinal
manipulation can increase range of motion, restore natural movement of the spine, relax muscles, and improve joint
coordination, all which will ultimately reduce pain.
Jack LaLanne, 93 and icon of health and fitness, leverages chiropractic as a regular component of his own fitness
routine. LaLanne studied at Oakland Chiropractic College before opening his first fitness center. LaLanne's belief
in the worth of chiropractic care, was passed down to his daughter, Yvonne, a chiropractor herself. LaLanne has
been quoted, "The spine is the lifeline. A lot of people should go to a chiropractor but they don't know it."
If you believe you have osteoarthritis, or have been diagnosed, see your Doctor of Chiropractic for an evaluation
and diagnostic workup to determine the best course of treatment. With early detection, appropriate chiropractic
care can decelerate the early stages of this process. Or if you are close to reaching those golden years, see a
chiropractor to design a program of preventative care for you, before you experience the discomfort from
osteoarthritis.
www-Arthritis.com
Dr. Marrone II currently practices with his father at Marrone Chiropractic of the
Bronx, NY. You can see more about them at www.MarroneChiropractic.com
Author Resource:-> Dr. Ernest
Marrone II a 1989 graduate of New York Chiropractic College and holds a BS degree from SUNY. He is a certified
Chiropractic Sports Physician and is Board Certified by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Dr. Marrone
currently practices with his father, in the Bronx NY at an office his father opened in 1955. You can view more
about Dr. Marrone and his practice at http://www.MarroneChiropractic.com
| 
