As we age, our knees begin to show signs of wear and tear, and studies show that an increasing number of middle-aged people are seeking total knee-replacement surgery. While there have been improvements in the surgical techniques, the procedure is still invasive and costly. Fortunately, early conservative treatment may allow patients to avoid the potential risks of joint-replacement surgery.
Research suggests that chiropractic adjustments can benefit patients with knee pain from osteoarthritis. In one study, patients who received chiropractic knee adjustments reported significant drops in pain intensity and less clicking and grinding sensations. They were also better able to perform daily tasks with enhanced mobility. The chiropractic patients also reported no adverse side effects. Patients who did not receive chiropractic adjustments in the study did not experience the same benefits.
Chiropractors can assist osteoarthritic patients in restoring normal joint alignment and gait, reducing inflammation, and finding the appropriate activities to promote flexibility and mobility. If you have chronic knee pain as result of osteoarthritis, contact our office to learn more about non-surgical methods to slow down joint degeneration and reduce pain.
References
"Knee Replacements Up Dramatically Among Adults 45 to 64 Years Old." Agency for Health Care Research and Quality. November 3, 2011. Accessed January 2, 2012. http://www.ahrq.gov/news/nn/nn110311.htm.
Pollard, Henry, Graham Ward, Wayne Hoskins, and Katie Hardy. The effect of a manual therapy knee protocol on osteoarthritic knee pain: a randomised controlled trial. The Journal of Canadian Chiropractic Association 2008, December;52(4):229-42.
Walker, Emily. "AHRQ: Big Jump in Knee Replacement Surgery." November 8, 2011. Accessed January 2, 2011.http://www.medpagetoday.com/Orthopedics/Orthopedics/29529.