Can You Avoid Osteoarthritis Surgery?
When it comes to osteoarthritis, the word "surgery" seems like a scary ending on a long road of joint pain and stiffness. It also seems inevitable when discussed with most healthcare providers. However, for those leaning toward natural healing methods, the question arises: Can we sidestep this surgical route? The answer, encouragingly, is yes, in many cases. Embracing a lifestyle that nurtures joint health can be a powerful deterrent against the need for surgery. Let’s dive in and learn how.
Understanding Osteoarthritis
Millions of individuals across the globe are impacted by osteoarthritis (OA), the leading type of arthritis. This condition develops as the protective cartilage, which serves as a cushion at the bone ends, gradually deteriorates. Cartilage has no nerve fibers, but pain results as it breaks down. OA is a whole joint problem and pain comes from the equally deteriorated bone and connective tissues surrounding that cartilage. Although OA can target any joint in the body, it most frequently impacts the joints found in the hands, knees, hips, and spine.
“As of yet, there’s no cure for OA as prevalent and disabling as it is,” says Dr. Meredith Warner, an orthopedic surgeon in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and founder of Well Theory.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Weight Management
Contrary to popular belief, the load from the extra weight of the adipose (fat) tissue isn’t fully to blame. The cytokines produced by adipose tissue are highly inflammatory and contribute to this condition more than the weight itself. Keeping your weight in check is crucial for lessening discomfort and avoiding more damage to your joints.
Exercise
Regular, gentle exercise helps maintain flexibility in your joints, and strength around them. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can strengthen the muscles around your joints, providing better support. Yoga and Tai Chi are also excellent for flexibility and balance. Resistance exercise, targetted to improve the strength of muscles that cross and support joints, is especially helpful.
Nutrition
A diet rich in antioxidants (found in fruits and vegetables) can help reduce inflammation; omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish) can also lessen joint pain. Incorporating foods with anti-inflammatory properties can be a natural way to combat OA discomfort.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy could significantly alter the course for individuals hoping to avoid surgery. A physical therapist creates a targeted treatment plan using techniques and exercises to bolster the muscles surrounding your joints, enhance your flexibility, and alleviate discomfort.
Assistive Devices
Using devices such as braces, canes, or shoe inserts can take pressure off your joints and help you to move more easily. Even something as simple as a shoe insert (orthotic) can diminish pain in the knees, hip, and spine. These aids can be simple yet effective tools in your arsenal against OA progression.
Mind-Body Practices
Never underestimate the power of the mind-body connection. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness can help manage the pain and stress associated with OA. There is strong science demonstrating the ability of the brain to down-regulate pain signals. Engaging in these practices can promote a sense of well-being and decrease the perception of pain.
Natural Supplements
Certain natural supplements have shown promise in supporting joint health without the risks and dangerous side effects of prescription narcotic drugs or over-the-counter NSAIDs. Here are a few of Dr. Warner’s favorites for fighting inflammation and pain related to osteoarthritis.
This potent antioxidant is part of Dr. Warner’s new Longevity series. Resveratrol potentially slows aging while improving cellular and metabolic health. It blocks inflammatory mediators and the damaging antibodies that cause the pain signal to the brain from damaged cartilage.
Packed with polyphenols and anthocyanins that are vital for inflammation and pain reduction. Tart cherry is a powerful antioxidant and targets the same inflammation receptors as over-the-counter pain relievers minus the dangerous side effects. Contains 1,500mg of pure tart cherry extract and offers natural relief from osteoarthritis inflammation and pain.
While osteoarthritis is indeed a challenging condition, surgery isn't always the inevitable solution. By adopting a holistic approach to health that includes weight management, regular exercise, proper nutrition, natural supplements, physical therapy, assistive devices, and mind-body practices, you can significantly improve your quality of life and potentially avoid surgery. Remember, every step towards a healthier lifestyle is a step away from the operating room.
Dr. Meredith Warner challenges the traditional orthopedic approach to joint, bone, tendon, and ligament pain in her upcoming book, Bone on Bone- An Orthopedic Surgeon’s Guide to Avoiding Surgery and Healing Pain Naturally. A limited supply is now available for pre-order. Get your personalized, autographed copy only available for the first 50 book orders.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Meredith Warner is the creator of Well Theory and The Healing Sole. She is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Air Force Veteran.
She is on a mission to disrupt traditional medicine practices and promote betterment physically, spiritually and mentally to many more people. She advocates for wellness and functional health over big pharma so more people can age vibrantly with more function and less pain.
At Well Theory, Our surgeon-designed products are FDA Registered and formulated to help people:
- Manage the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain
- Recover vibrantly from orthopedic related surgeries
- Fill the gaps in our daily diets
- Manage pain associated with inflammation