Osteoarthritis

Understanding Osteoarthritis

Also known as: OA, Degenerative Joint Disease, Wear-and-Tear Arthritis The old framing of osteoarthritis as irreversible "wear and tear" has been largely replaced by a more useful one: OA is an active biological process, and active, conservative management can meaningfully slow its impact. As cartilage wears down over time, the underlying bone becomes exposed and the joint develops inflammation, stiffness, and bony changes. OA most often affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, and can involve several joints simultaneously. What matters clinically is that the research consistently points to exercise and weight management — not rest — as the most effective interventions.

Deep joint pain worsening with activity and easing with rest, morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes, and crepitus (grinding or crackling) are classic. Symptoms are typically worse after heavy days and often flare with weather changes. Bony enlargement in the fingers and reduced range of motion develop over time. We typically prefer low-force mobilization over high-velocity manipulation at arthritic joints, while using targeted adjustments at adjacent segments that have become restricted.

Graded range-of-motion and strengthening exercises, weight management coaching, and anti-inflammatory lifestyle guidance are central. Low-level laser and PEMF have supportive evidence. We co-manage with your primary care, rheumatologist, or orthopedist and refer when injections or surgical consultation are appropriate. We may recommend: gentle joint mobilization, low-force adjustments to adjacent segments, range-of-motion and strengthening exercises, weight management coaching, anti-inflammatory nutrition, low-level laser therapy, PEMF therapy Seek immediate care if: A joint becomes hot, red, and dramatically swollen with fever, or if pain becomes severe and sudden after minor trauma — these may indicate infection or fracture requiring urgent evaluation.