What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that causes pain and dysfunction in millions of people. It is what people commonly refer to when they complain about their joints getting stiffer as they age, although it is often confused with other conditions that are termed “arthritis.” Since May is Arthritis Awareness Month, we at the Catalina Medical Center in Redondo Beach thought this would be a good time to review what makes osteoarthritis distinct and what we can do about it.


Our joints contain cartilage, which is a smooth and slippery substance that prevents bones from grinding into each other. The term osteoarthritis describes break-down in cartilage. As it becomes flaked and cracked, pieces of grinding bones may chip off and the ends of the bones may develop deformed growths. When people develop osteoarthritis early in life, it may be because of a genetic disorder that prevents them from developing healthy cartilage. More commonly, osteoarthritis is found in older people who may have overused cartilage or whose fatty tissue may be producing inflammatory chemicals. Healed joint injuries can also trigger osteoarthritis later in life.


Osteoarthritis is distinct from the rheumatic conditions that result from immune disorders, although it may develop in response to rheumatism. Patients may rightly expect that we are concerned about osteoarthritis in the spine’s facet joints, but our holistic health model acknowledges the importance of nutrition, weight management, and exercise for preventing and treating osteoarthritis throughout the body. Stronger muscles will reinforce joints that are compromised by failing cartilage, and treatments such as adjustments and acupuncture can relieve discomfort from joint disorders.


The Catalina Medical Center is located at 1919 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach, California, 90277. To schedule an appointment, visit Catalina Medical or call 310-378-7246.


 

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