Chronic Pain in the Elderly: The Two Most Common Conditions

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Chronic Pain in the Elderly: The Two Most Common Conditions
Chronic Pain in the Elderly: The Two Most Common Conditions

As people age, occasional aches can escalate into chronic conditions that affect mobility, independence, and quality of life. Two of the most common culprits, osteoarthritis and herniated discs, can sneak up silently but cause severe discomfort if not addressed early. Understanding the signs and treatment options is key to managing these conditions effectively and avoiding further complications. 

Osteoarthritis: When Knees Give Way 

With advancing age, the knee joints deteriorate, losing their ability to bear weight efficiently. Synovial fluid that cushions joint movements diminishes, leaving cartilage vulnerable to friction. This can lead to the familiar crackling sounds during movement, followed by stiffness, swelling, and persistent pain.

Left untreated, osteoarthritis may cause the legs to bow, and the strain placed on the healthy knee can speed up its degeneration. Early intervention not only helps prevent further joint damage but also minimizes the risk of muscle weakness and impaired mobility. 

Key Symptoms to Watch For: 

  • Knee swelling or tenderness 
  • Pain or discomfort when moving 
  • Stiffness, tightness, or a grinding sensation in the knee joint 

Herniated Discs: Back Pain with a Red Flag

Back pain is a common issue that affects almost everyone at some point, often resulting from improper posture or lifting heavy objects. Most cases resolve within a couple of weeks. However, sudden pain radiating down the leg could signal a herniated disc, which is a serious condition that requires immediate attention. 

When a spinal disc slips out of place, it compresses nearby nerves, causing sharp pain that can extend down to the legs. If ignored, it may lead to progressive nerve damage, muscle weakness, and loss of mobility. 

Warning Signs of a Herniated Disc:

  • Persistent back pain spreading to one or both legs 
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower limbs 
  • Difficulty walking or standing for long periods 

The Danger of Delayed Treatment 

Without timely care, both osteoarthritis and spinal degeneration can become debilitating. Advanced cases may require surgical intervention to restore function. However, many elderly patients are reluctant to undergo surgery due to the fear of postoperative pain and the physical demands of recovery.  

Fortunately, there are non-surgical treatment alternatives that offer effective relief without the risks associated with surgery or long-term medication use. 

Comprehensive, Non-Surgical Solutions at Absolute Health

At Absolute Health, we believe in a holistic, patient-centred approach to pain management. Rather than simply masking symptoms, we focus on identifying and treating the underlying causes. Our integrative care model combines advanced therapies with personalized treatment plans for optimal results. 

Our Treatment Options Include:

  1. Physical Therapy: Customized rehabilitation programs to restore mobility, strength, and function.
  2. Platelet Special Factors (PSF): Utilizing the patient’s own platelets, this innovative therapy stimulates growth factors to repair damaged tissues naturally.
  3. Advanced Pain Management Tools:
  4. Prolotherapy: A regenerative injection technique that encourages the body’s natural healing process by targeting areas of tissue damage.
    • Focused Shock Wave Therapy: Delivers shock waves to stimulate healing, promoting new blood vessels and nerve growth.
    • High-Power Laser Therapy: Penetrates deep into inflamed areas, reducing pain and inflammation at the source.
    • Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation (PMS): Uses electromagnetic waves to activate muscles and nerves, offering relief for herniated discs and muscle spasms.
  5. Peptide Therapy: Bioactive peptides are administered to reverse degeneration and restore the function of damaged organs and tissues.

A Better Path to Pain Relief 

At Absolute Health, we understand that surgery isn’t always the answer. That’s why we provide comprehensive non-surgical solutions that address the root cause of chronic pain by helping patients heal without invasive procedures or long-term dependence on medication. 

Our team consists of specialists in orthopaedics, rehabilitation medicine, and integrative care, working alongside experienced physical therapists. Together, we develop tailored treatment plans that empower patients to take control of their health and enjoy life free from chronic pain. 

If you're ready to find lasting relief and regain your mobility without surgery, visit us at Absolute Health and let our expert team guide you toward a pain-free future. 

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