Do you suffer from osteoarthritis? Heat therapy and cold therapy can provide relief for your symptoms. Heat therapy relaxes soft tissues, improves circulation, and stimulates joint fluid production to soothe pain and stiffness. On the other hand, cold therapy helps reduce inflammation and swelling. However, if you’re seeking advanced treatment options, MedLink Health Solutions has the answer for you.

Why do our joints start to hurt as we age? Are we all doomed to this fate? Is there something we can do to slow this process? These are some of the questions we will be exploring in this post.

Understanding Osteoarthritis

Worldwide, OA is the leading cause of disability among older adults. It is projected that by 2050, 130 million people will suffer from OA, and 40 million will be severely disabled by the condition.

In the United States, Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis with over 32.5 million adults affected with OA. Often referred to as degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis, OA primarily affects the hands, hips, and knees. It occurs when the cartilage within a joint begins to break down, and the underlying bone starts to change. These changes usually develop slowly and worsen over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. In more severe cases, osteoarthritis can also cause reduced joint function and disability.

Several factors increase the risk of developing OA, including joint injury or overuse, age, female gender, and obesity. Research shows that women are particularly susceptible to OA after menopause, largely due to changes in hormone levels. The loss of protective estrogen can accelerate cartilage degeneration, making it more challenging to maintain joint health as women age.

Preventing Osteoarthritis: What You Can Do

While aging and genetics play significant roles in the development of osteoarthritis, there are proactive steps you can take to reduce your risk. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to protect your joints, especially those that bear the body’s weight, such as the hips and knees. Even a small reduction in weight can significantly reduce the pressure on your joints, helping to slow the progression of OA.

Engaging in joint-friendly activities is also essential. Opt for low-impact exercises like walking, cycling, and swimming, which promote joint mobility without causing excessive stress. Strength training and stretching exercises can further support joint stability and flexibility, helping to reduce the risk of injury.

Managing Osteoarthritis: Naturopathic and Regenerative Approaches

If you already have osteoarthritis, don’t lose hope. There are several natural and regenerative treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. At MedLink Health Solutions, a leading naturopathic and regenerative therapy clinic in AZ, we offer a range of therapies designed to address OA at its core.

Anti-inflammatory supplements, such as curcumin, can help alleviate OA-related inflammation and pain. Additionally, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet that reduces processed foods and sugars while increasing whole foods can provide overall support for your joints. Topical CBD cream may also reduce inflammation and pain; however, it’s important to choose products that are clearly labeled and have undergone third-party testing, as CBD is not well-regulated.

Hydrotherapy, which involves alternating hot and cold water, can also provide relief, particularly for hand joints. Heat therapy can soothe pain and stiffness by relaxing soft tissues, increasing circulation, and stimulating joint fluid production. Conversely, cold therapy can help reduce inflammation and swelling.

The Promise of Regenerative Ortho-Biologics

For those seeking advanced treatment options, MedLink Health Solutions offers regenerative ortho-biologics, a cutting-edge approach that addresses the root causes of OA. This innovative therapy harnesses the body’s natural healing mechanisms to repair damaged cartilage and restore joint function, providing a long-term solution rather than just masking the symptoms.

Regenerative ortho-biologics is part of our commitment to offering the best in naturopathic care in AZ. We focus on individualized treatment plans that cater to your specific needs, helping you regain mobility and live pain-free.

Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief

Don’t let osteoarthritis control your life. At MedLink Health Solutions, we combine naturopathic care with advanced regenerative therapies to help you achieve lasting relief. Visit our Regenerative Ortho-Biologics page to learn more about our innovative treatments. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you get back to doing what you love, free from the pain of osteoarthritis.