Arthritis pain can occur in your hips, knees, hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, and ankles. Trauma, work-related repetitive injury, diet, and heredity influence the degree of the condition and its onset. Gender also plays a role in arthritis as women are more likely to develop arthritis than men.
The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage in one or more joints over a period of time. In its early stages, the surface of the cartilage becomes swollen and certain tissue components are lost. Eventually, cartilage loses its elasticity and becomes more susceptible to damage from repetitive use and trauma. Ultimately, large amounts of bone within the joint are damaged or destroyed, leaving the ends of the bone within the joint uncushioned and unprotected. By age 65, more than half of the population has x-ray evidence of osteoarthritis, also know as DJD, in at least one joint. Instead of waiting for irreversible damage to occur, the doctors of the Ortman Clinic will work with you to relieve the pain and functional limitations of DJD.
Think about it: If your joints hurt, stride and posture are affected which in turn affects spinal alignment. If you experience joint pain, stiffness and/or swelling for more than two weeks, make an appointment with your Ortman Clinic doctor as you may suffer from arthritis.
The Ortman Technique is a safe and effective treatment to help restore proper alignment, mobility, and function. We can also treat you with ultrasound, electrotherapy, and other modalities helpful in restoring joint mobilization. We'll show you exercises such as stretching and other gentle activities to help maintain arthritic joints.
Along with the treatments and modalities, basic lifestyle changes may also be recommended. Exercise and a proper diet can strengthen the muscular support and help the wear and tear on the joints.
Supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, MSM and omega-3 fatty acids, may also be used to reduce pain and increase function.
Call 605-296-3431 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment with a doctor.
