Osteoarthrits or OA is the most common form of arthritis.  Characterized by the degeneration of articular cartilage and underlying bone, as well as, overgrowth of bone at the margins of joints, it is also known as degenerative joint disease.  27 million American adults (age 25 and older) and more than 33% of Americans 65 or older are estimated to be afflicted with OA.  Knees, hands, and hips are most commonly the site of pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by Osteoarthritis.

While restoring and maintaining movement in the spine is the central goal of chiropractic treatments, keeping the body moving is also a great way to control OA.  Arthritis Today reports, “activity of all kinds is the best non-drug treatment for improving pain and function,” while “the Arthritis Foundation believes “Moving is the Best Medicine” when it comes to Fighting OA.”  Either of these resources is a great place to learn about how to safely get yourself moving.

The Four Mile Creek Greenway, Matthews recently opened in April 2011.  This pavement and boardwalk greenway now makes areas of downtown Matthews, NC easily accessible to surrounding neighborhoods for walking, biking, and more.  As cooler weather make the outdoors more inviting, get out and get your body moving.  For additional strategies to reduce your risk of Osteoarthritis, visit FIGHTARTHRITSPAIN.ORG.

If you already suffer from OA symptoms, home remedies include the use of Flax seed oil, Epsom salt, Cinnamon, Turmeric, and Ginger, among others.  For dosing and additional remedies jump to Arthritis Home Remedies.  Keeping joints or the spine and the rest of the body moving well with Chiropractic care is another drug-free, conservative approach to controlling the pain, swelling, stiffness, and lost range-of-motion typical of Osteoarthritis.

Remember to listen to your body.  If exercise causes sharp or very strong pain during or within a couple hours of exercising, then your activity may be too strenuous.  Reduce the intensity of your workout or plan to see your physician.

It seems that Osteoarthritis is a natural part of aging, especially after age 45.  Exercise benefits extend beyond the joints to our heart, lung, brain and beyond.  If you are not yet affected by OA, don’t wait until you have pain or stiffness to become active.  With many easy ways to start moving your body, why not get started today?!