What is Arthritis and should I be Scared of it??
Arthritis, a condition characterized by joint inflammation, comes in various forms, with osteoarthritis (OA) being the most common. OA typically involves the gradual wearing and thinning of joint cartilage, which is a natural part of aging—similar to the appearance of wrinkles or graying hair. However, research has shown that while cartilage loss is common, it doesn't necessarily lead to pain or inflammation unless other factors—such as joint misalignment or injury—accelerate the degeneration and cause abnormal stress on the joint.
Identifying the reasons behind a joint’s excessive wear is key in managing OA effectively. This accelerated degeneration can be influenced by several factors beyond just age, including past injuries, certain sports, or repetitive movements that place undue stress on specific joints. Understanding these underlying causes is crucial, as it allows for targeted treatment and prevention strategies that can slow the progression of OA.
Effective, evidence-based treatments—such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and physiotherapy—have been shown to significantly help in managing OA symptoms and slowing down the joint’s degeneration. Acupuncture can reduce pain and inflammation by stimulating blood flow and promoting the release of natural pain-relieving endorphins. Meanwhile, massage therapy works to relieve muscle tension around the joint, enhancing mobility and reducing strain on surrounding structures.
At Walkers Health and Performance, located in Burlington, we have a diverse team of experts specializing in physiotherapy, particularly in strengthening exercises and joint mobilization. These therapies play a crucial role in improving joint alignment and function, which in turn helps reduce abnormal stress on the affected area. Together, these treatments form a comprehensive approach to arthritis management, promoting better joint health and slowing down the degenerative process.
Don’t let arthritis hold you back. Take the first step toward pain relief and better mobility today.
Contact us at Walkers Health and Performance—whether by calling, DM, or booking through the link in our bio.
Walkers Health and Performance: Your Partner in Pain Relief and Recovery.
