Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition, and while it can occur in anyone, it has been found to affect about 50% of people over the age of 65. It is one of the leading causes of disability in older adults and places a significant strain on the health care system.
Osteoarthritis primarily affects the cartilage that covers the bones in the joints throughout the body. As that cartilage degenerates, the surrounding stabilizing and supporting structures (ligaments, tendons, and muscles) are overworked, often resulting in pain. In the later stages, bones may begin to push against each other, causing more pain and degeneration. The good news is that this process can be slowed, and Lima Men's Health Clinic offers up-to-date treatment and preventive care.
Osteoarthritis tends to affect joints that are commonly overworked and overused, typically weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, neck, lower back, big toes, and hands. Joints that have sustained serious trauma or repeated micro-stress from repetitive labor are also more prone to developing osteoarthritis.
Our primary focus of care is to restore the normal alignment of the joints. Bones that are not in their proper positions degenerate faster, so our treatment programs look at all aspects of health and may include physical therapy along with nutritional and supplemental guidance shown to help slow the progression of osteoarthritis.