How Can we Help You?
Osteoarthritis
Yes, chiropractic care is a highly effective way to manage and alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis. At Family Life Chiropractic, we specialize in utilizing a range of gentle and effective techniques, including joint mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and spinal adjustments, to help relieve pain and improve mobility for our patients.
While chiropractic care does not cure osteoarthritis, our personalised treatment plans focus on improving joint function, reducing pain, and enhancing your overall quality of life. We take a holistic approach, addressing the underlying causes of joint stiffness and discomfort, to provide lasting relief and support your journey towards better mobility and health.
Our goal is to empower you to regain control of your health, stay active, and maintain a higher quality of life, despite the challenges of osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is commonly understood as a condition resulting from the ‘wear and tear’ of the joint and its associated structures. It is the most prevalent form of arthritis, affecting millions, particularly older adults, and is a leading cause of chronic pain and reduced mobility.
Although age is the most recognized contributor, several other factors can expedite joint deterioration. These include:
- Previous joint Injury: Previous injuries to a joint—such as fractures, sprains, or dislocations—can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life. Damaged cartilage or surrounding structures may not heal completely, leading to joint instability and ongoing pain.
- Overuse / incorrect use of a Joint: Repetitive stress on a joint, often seen in certain occupations or sports, can wear down the cartilage faster than normal. This can result in inflammation, pain, and a reduced range of motion.
- Prolonged Excessive Pressure: Conditions that place sustained pressure on a joint—such as obesity or poor posture—can contribute to the breakdown of cartilage. Carrying excess weight increases the load on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, which can accelerate degenerative changes.
These factors increase stress on the joint, prompting the body to work harder to repair the damage. Over time, this repeated strain can lead to further deterioration, worsening symptoms such as stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. As cartilage breaks down, bones may begin to rub against each other, causing additional pain and limiting mobility.

While aging is a natural part of life, addressing and managing these contributing factors can help slow the progression of osteoarthritis and minimize its impact on joint health. Implementing strategies such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercise, and seeking timely medical attention for joint injuries can all play vital roles in preserving joint function. Additionally, treatments like chiropractic care can help alleviate pain and improve mobility, enhancing overall quality of life for those affected by this condition..
Common Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary widely among individuals, often depending on the severity of the condition and the specific joints affected. Typically, these symptoms develop gradually and may fluctuate, with periods of increased pain or stiffness known as flare-ups. These flare-ups can be triggered by various factors, including changes in weather, increased activity, or stress. Here’s a more detailed look at the common symptoms associated with osteoarthritis:
Pain: The primary symptom of osteoarthritis is joint pain, which may feel dull or sharp. This pain is often exacerbated by movement and activity and may improve with rest. As the condition progresses, pain may become persistent, even at rest, particularly in advanced stages.
Stiffness: Stiffness in the affected joints is common, especially after periods of inactivity or in the morning after waking. This stiffness may last for several minutes but can gradually improve with gentle movement. In some cases, stiffness can reoccur after long periods of sitting or standing.
Swelling: Inflammation can lead to swelling in the joints, resulting in an appearance of puffiness. This swelling can be accompanied by tenderness, making the joint feel warm to the touch. The degree of swelling can vary, sometimes increasing after prolonged activity or use of the joint
Creaking or Grinding Sensation (Crepitus): Individuals with osteoarthritis may notice a grating or grinding sound or sensation when moving the affected joint. This crepitus occurs due to the rough surfaces of the cartilage rubbing against each other as it deteriorates.
Decreased Flexibility: As osteoarthritis progresses, individuals may experience reduced flexibility and difficulty in bending or straightening the joint fully. This limitation can affect daily activities and overall mobility, making tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or reaching difficult.
Bone Spurs: The body may develop bone spurs, which are small bony growths that form around the edges of the affected joint. These spurs can be felt as hard lumps and may contribute to pain and restricted movement.
Fatigue: Chronic pain and discomfort from osteoarthritis can lead to fatigue. The constant effort to manage pain and the limitations imposed by the condition can contribute to mental and physical exhaustion.
Impact on Daily Activities: The cumulative effect of these symptoms can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities, including work, hobbies, and self-care. Tasks that were once easy may become challenging, leading to frustration and decreased quality of life.

Osteoarthritis on X-Ray

How Chiropractic Care Supports Osteoarthritis Management
At Family Life Chiropractic, we offer a comprehensive and holistic approach to managing osteoarthritis, a prevalent degenerative joint disease that can significantly affect the quality of life for many individuals. Our dedicated focus is on providing care for patients experiencing osteoarthritis in the spine, pelvis, and hip joints.
Our core philosophy centers around enhancing spinal function as a means to improve overall health and well-being. By optimizing spinal alignment and mobility, we aim to achieve several key outcomes:
- Reduction of Inflammation: Our chiropractic techniques help reduce inflammation in the affected joints. Proper alignment promotes better circulation and facilitates the body’s natural healing processes, which can help alleviate discomfort.
- Alleviation of Pain: We understand that pain can be debilitating. Through targeted chiropractic adjustments, we relieve pressure on nerves and surrounding tissues, resulting in significant pain reduction. Many patients report improvements in their symptoms after just a few sessions.
- Enhancement of Joint Mobility: Stiffness is a common issue associated with osteoarthritis. Our treatments are designed to increase the range of motion in the affected joints, allowing individuals to move more freely and comfortably. This enhancement in mobility not only improves daily functioning but also encourages a more active lifestyle.
At Family Life Chiropractic, we are committed to developing personalised treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Our goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary for managing their condition effectively. By focusing on the underlying causes of osteoarthritis and promoting overall joint health, we strive to improve our patients’ quality of life and support them on their journey to greater well-being.