I think in all of my years as an Osteopath, I’ve pretty much heard it all. For those of you who know me, you will know that I do love a good chat.
I’ve heard many different ideas on millions of different subjects and there’s NEVER a dumb question to ask in a consult.
I do however love patient education, so here’s a few things I regularly hear and let’s bust some myths!
My knee is bone on bone
Oh, we hear this one a lot!
Patients usually say this when they are describing severe or painful osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the wear and tear or degeneration between joints. It’s a normal part of the aging process of our joints, but things such as trauma, overuse and genetics play a part in when you get it and how severe it can be.
The problem with calling it “bone on bone” is that the joint is rarely actually bone on bone. There will probably be a decrease in the joint space and there will be a loss of cartilage, but the bone won’t actually be rubbing on the bone.
Sayings like this can produce fear and negativity around pain and movement, when there are absolutely ways that Osteoarthritis can be managed. This is something we see all day, and if you have any questions regarding your own Osteoarthritis, always ask us!
Disc bulges never heal
The research very much now tells us that disc bulges can heal with the right treatment, which can include rest, osteopathic treatment, pain relieving medication, exercise and strengthening program.
Each disc bulge is different and studies vary, but current research says most disc bulges do respond to conservative treatment (that is treatment that isn’t surgery). Osteopaths are trained to help manage disc bulges from the very initial injury, so please always consult is if you think you may have a disc injury.
There’s nothing you can do for Osteoarthritis
This is not true!
While there is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, there is a lot you can do to manage it. It depends on what joints are affected (it could be your hip, spine, knee or other joints) and what the severity of it is.
The best thing you can do is to remain active. Exercise is strongly recommended for people with arthritis. Maintaining strong muscles to help support the joints and movement to keep the joints moving is key. An exercise program tailored to you or exercise like swimming or yoga are really helpful.
Nutrition is really important, along with maintaining a healthy weight. More weight through the joints can lead to more stress on the joints. The best type of diet is a healthy balanced diet, full of colourful veggies. Don’t forget to stay hydrated with water as well.
Learn how to manage the pain! Things like pain medications (Panadol, anti-inflammatories) can often be helpful. Rest when you need to. Osteo treatment can help decrease some of the pain and tightness, and increase the movement in your body and help you get back to the things you love to do.
If you have heard any other 'myths' make sure you get in touch so we can provide some research and data! Contact us here.