Osteoarthritis and Its Impact on Back Pain

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common joint conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. Known as the “wear-and-tear” arthritis, OA occurs when the cartilage that cushions joints gradually breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While osteoarthritis can affect any joint, the spine is particularly vulnerable due to its weight-bearing role and constant use. For many, the combination of osteoarthritis and back pain becomes a significant barrier to maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

At Legacy Chiropractic, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to managing OA-related back pain, focusing on reducing discomfort, improving mobility, and supporting long-term joint health.

What Is Osteoarthritis and Why Does It Hurt?

Osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage covering the ends of bones wears away over time. Without this cushioning, bones rub against each other, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness.

Why Does Osteoarthritis Hurt?

Inflammation:

• Joint inflammation due to cartilage loss contributes to stiffness and discomfort.

Bone Spurs:

• The body may respond to cartilage loss by forming bone spurs, which can press on nerves and worsen pain.

Reduced Mobility:

• Structural changes in the joint reduce flexibility and make movement painful.

In the spine, OA commonly affects the facet joints—the small joints located between each vertebra. As these joints deteriorate, they can cause significant back pain, particularly in the lower back.

The Connection Between Osteoarthritis and Back Pain

Osteoarthritis of the spine leads to specific challenges that distinguish it from OA in other parts of the body.

How OA Affects the Spine:

Cartilage Breakdown in Facet Joints:

• As the cartilage wears away, the vertebrae lose their smooth movement, resulting in pain and stiffness.

Bone Spurs:

• These bony growths may compress nearby nerves, leading to radiating pain or numbness.

Disc Degeneration:

• OA often occurs alongside degenerative disc disease, compounding the pain and loss of mobility.

Symptoms of OA-Related Back Pain Include:

• Persistent stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity.
• Aching or sharp pain localized to the lower back.
• Reduced flexibility, making it difficult to perform daily tasks.

Chiropractors address these symptoms with treatments that target both the pain and its underlying causes.

Chiropractic Care: A Holistic Approach to Osteoarthritis and Back Pain

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free option for managing osteoarthritis and back pain. At Legacy Chiropractic, chiropractors use a variety of techniques to relieve pain, improve joint function, and enhance overall mobility, including the following:

Spinal Adjustments

How It Works:

• Gentle adjustments realign the spine, reducing pressure on facet joints and improving overall posture.

Benefits:

• Relieves nerve irritation, improves joint mobility, and reduces pain.

Manual Therapy

How It Works:

• We use hands-on techniques to target tight muscles and connective tissues around the affected joints.

Benefits:

• Reduces tension, improves circulation, and enhances flexibility.

Joint Mobilization

How It Works:

• We use controlled, low-force movements to apply to stiff joints to improve their range of motion.

Benefits:

• Relieves stiffness and increases flexibility, making daily activities more comfortable.

Instrument-Assisted Adjustments

How It Works:

• Chiropractors use specialized instruments to deliver precise adjustments without putting additional strain on the joints.

Benefits:

• Provides relief for patients with osteoarthritis and back pain who may have difficulty tolerating traditional manual adjustments.

Exercises and Stretches

How It Works:

• Customized exercise plans strengthen the muscles supporting the spine while improving flexibility.

Benefits:

• Reduces strain on joints, enhances stability, and supports long-term joint health.

Lifestyle and Ergonomic Guidance

How It Works:

• Chiropractors provide personalized advice on posture, ergonomics, and activity modifications to minimize stress on the spine.

Benefits:

• Prevents further joint degeneration and promotes better movement patterns.

These treatments are tailored to the individual, ensuring that each patient receives care suited to their specific needs and goals.

Find Relief from Osteoarthritis and Back Pain at Legacy Chiropractic

Living with osteoarthritis and back pain doesn’t have to mean giving up the activities you enjoy. At Legacy Chiropractic, our chiropractors provide comprehensive care designed to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life. Through personalized treatments, we help patients manage their symptoms and stay active.

Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and discover how chiropractic care can help you take control of your osteoarthritis and back pain!