Osteoarthritis / Degenerative Joint Disease

Osteoarthritis (OA)/Degenerative Joint Disease is one of the most common types of arthritis. It is characterized by the breakdown of the joint's cushioning cartilage. This allows the bones to rub against each other, causing joint dysfunction, inflammation, loss of movement and eventually pain. OA most commonly affects middle-aged and older people and can range from very mild to very severe. It can affect any joint in the body.

Symptoms include:

Gradual onset of a deep achy joint pain
May be worse after exercise or weight bearing
Often relieved by rest
Possible joint swelling
Limited joint movement
Stiffness in the morning
Pain before and during low pressure systems (rain or snow)
There may be no symptoms yet

Healthy Living Tips For Osteroarthritis

Periodic checkups or supportive care. Supporting proper functioning of the body's muscles and joints with periodic treatments minimizes the stresses to joints and associated muscles and nerves.

Practice proper posture, lifting and ergonomics. Practicing proper posture, lifting techniques and ergonomics are essential in reducing injuries at work and play and minimizing future recurrences of past injuries.

Regular exercise. Routine physical activity keeps the body strong and healthy. We will work with you to develop an effective exercise routine that will work with the time you decide to dedicate, and the goals that you set for yourself.

Proper diet and nutrition. Providing your body with the proper fuel increases performance, reduces the likelihood of injury and sickness, speeds recovery after injury, and keeps you feeling good. It may be time to add whole food supplements to your diet such as glucosamine sulfate or fish oils (DHA, EPA) to decrease pain, inflammation and help regenerate cartilage.

Utilize stress management techniques. Stress is most often carried in the weakest areas of the body. While stress can't be totally eliminated there are effective techniques to help bring it under control.

Proper footwear or orthotics. It is very important that the arch of the foot is properly supported. The arch is the foundation of the body and abnormal function here will translate up to the hip and back.

Questions?

Do you have a question about your current situation that you'd like to ask? Send an email with your question to: questions@optimalhealthfcc.com

Contact info

Ph: (515) 964-9966
802 SE Oralabor Road
Suite 121
Ankeny, IA 50021

Location

South of Super Wal-Mart next to Subway and Greenberg's Jewelers

See the Contact Us page for a map to our office

Office Hours

M / Tu / Th: 8:00am-12:00pm, 2:00pm-6:00pm
W: 7:00am-11:00am
Call ahead for availability.

Our patients are saying...

" We are definitely planning to offer more workshops with Dr. Olson. "

- Sandy E. - Ankeny