Osteoarthritis and Joint Degeneration

Managing Joint Wear and Improving Mobility with Chiropractic Care

Osteoarthritis is a natural part of the aging process, in which the cartilage within a joint gradually becomes thinner, stiffer, and eventually breaks down. As a result, the joint surfaces can no longer glide smoothly, leading to friction, stiffness, persistent aches, and restricted movement.

Although osteoarthritis is common with age, its progression and severity vary greatly between individuals. Contributing factors include:

  • Previous injuries (e.g. old sports injuries)

  • Chronic overuse or physically demanding work

  • Joint misalignment

  • Obesity or poor lifestyle habits (e.g. smoking)

  • Certain medical conditions or medications

  • Genetics

Osteoarthritis is commonly seen in the spine (intervertebral joints), hips, knees, and shoulders. While it is often classified as a rheumatic condition, it can also affect younger individuals.

Do you just have to live with it?

No — and this is a common misconception.
Although joint degeneration cannot be reversed, not everyone with wear and tear experiences pain or disability. Symptoms often arise only when the joint also becomes stiff and restricted in movement — and that’s where chiropractic care can help.

 

Chiropractic Assessment

At Chiropractie Aalst-Waalre, we examine the entire movement chain. For example, if a patient presents with lower back pain, we also assess mobility in the hips, knees, and ankles. Dysfunction in one area can overload another, worsening the problem.

 

Chiropractic Treatment for Osteoarthritis

You don’t have to live with chronic joint pain. While we can’t stop the degenerative process, we can significantly reduce stiffness, restore mobility, and relieve pain.

Gentle chiropractic adjustments and mobilisations help to:

  • Create more space within the joint

  • Improve joint movement

  • Reduce mechanical stress on surrounding tissues

  • Support more comfortable and natural motion

This enables you to move more freely — and more confidently. Movement is essential for managing osteoarthritis, but we understand how difficult it can be when pain limits activity. That’s why our treatments focus on unlocking the joint first, making it easier for you to stay active and mobile.