Dr. Erik T. Bendiks Atlanta | Orthopedic Surgeon | Spine Treatment Atlanta

Thursday 15 December 2016

Spinal Osteoarthritis Treatment Atlanta – How It Is Treated?

Spinal osteoarthritis is one condition which has affected millions of people across the globe. It is a breakdown of the cartilage of the discs and joints in the lower back and the neck. In some cases, osteoarthritis of the spine produces spurs that can put pressure on the nerves which leave the spinal column. This, in turn, might trigger pain and weakness in the legs or arms. Spinal Osteoarthritis Treatment Atlanta can help you regain normal activities, provided it is done timely.

How is Spinal Osteoarthritis Treated?

Usually, the spinal surgeon designs treatment plans which gears toward alleviating the symptoms of pain and discomfort and increasing the ability of a person to function. The main goal is to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Initial treatment might also include shedding those extra pounds. No doubt that maintaining ideal body weight is important for all and sundry. You might also be recommended to exercise. Along with helping with weight management, exercise also helps in the following:

A.    Makes it much easier to perform daily tasks
B.    Improves mood and attitude
C.    Increases flexibility
D.    Improve flow of blood
E.    Strengthen the heart

York orthopedic surgeon would recommend strengthening exercises, range-of-motion exercises and aerobic exercises. Each of these exercises has its own purpose. Also, doctor will recommend rest periods in the treatment plan. However, it is important to know that traction, bed rest, bracing or splints for relatively longer duration is not recommended.

There are non-drug treatments also available for treating osteoarthritis of the spine. Some of these treatment options might comprise of the following:

1.    Nutritional supplements
2.    Massage
3.    Cold or heat compresses, which means placing heated or ice compresses onto the affected joint.
4.    Acupuncture
5.    Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) making use of a small device that emits electrical pulses onto the damaged or affected area

Initially, orthopedic surgeon recommends non-drug treatment and lifestyle changes to improve the condition. Pain relievers might be recommended to alleviate discomfort and pain. However, when it comes to Spinal Osteoarthritis Treatment, steroids and injections are prescribed when none of these above-mentioned treatments improves the condition. Surgery is the last resort to treat spinal osteoarthritis.

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