Osteoarthritis Treatment in Chicago
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common joint conditions, and it often develops gradually over time. Many patients notice stiffness, reduced movement, or aching joints that slowly begin to interfere with daily activities like walking, standing, or getting up from a chair.
Dr. Elissa Grossman, DC has treated many patients in Chicago with osteoarthritis affecting the spine and other joints. At Chiropractic Chicago, care focuses on understanding how joint wear, movement patterns, and posture contribute to symptoms. The goal is to help patients maintain mobility, comfort, and confidence in movement through conservative, non-surgical care.
Your first visit is focused on listening, careful evaluation, and clear guidance on next steps.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis develops when joint surfaces and surrounding tissues experience ongoing stress over time. Common contributing factors include:
- Age-related joint degeneration
- Prior injury or joint trauma
- Repetitive stress and overuse
- Reduced joint mobility
- Muscle imbalance and weakness
- Postural and biomechanical strain
In many cases, symptoms worsen when joint stress is not addressed early.
How Do We Diagnose the Root Cause of Osteoarthritis?
At Chiropractic Chicago, diagnosis begins with understanding how your joints move and function. Your evaluation may include:
- Review of health history and symptom progression
- Joint mobility and functional assessment
- Postural and movement analysis
- Muscle strength and flexibility testing
- Neurological screening when indicated
- X-rays or imaging when clinically appropriate
Dr. Elissa Grossman, DC takes time to explain findings clearly so you understand what may be contributing to joint stress and discomfort.
Osteoarthritis Treatment Plan
Each osteoarthritis care plan is customized based on joint involvement, mobility, and functional needs. Treatment may include:
- Personalized, evidence-based care plans
- Gentle joint adjustments when appropriate
- Non-surgical and drug-free pain management strategies
- Movement and posture guidance
- Supportive exercises to improve joint stability
- Progressive care adjusted based on response
The goal is to improve joint function, reduce stiffness, and support long-term mobility.
Cervical Osteoarthritis Causing Chronic Neck Pain Patient Case Study
Patient Info: A middle aged adult male developed degenerative and arthritic changes in the cervical spine due to chronic and repetitive stress on cervical spine.
Symptoms: He experienced persistent neck pain that traveled into the shoulder and arm, affecting movement and daily comfort. He has difficulty turning his head and extending it.
Root Cause Analysis: Degenerative and arthritic changes in the cervical spine caused by years of poor alignment and abnormal joint motion, placing stress on the joints and discs.
Treatment Plan: Chiropractic adjustments improved joint movement and reduced stress on arthritic areas of the neck. Shockwave therapy, massage, and home exercises were recommended that supported recovery.
Outcomes: Arm pain resolved completely within a week, and neck pain improved by approximately 80% within the first month, with continued progress afterward.
Patient Feedback: The patient reported significant pain relief, improved neck movement, and better daily comfort. He expressed satisfaction with being able to return to normal activities with far less discomfort.
Osteoarthritis Patient Testimonials & Reviews
Osteoarthritis Treatment Specialists in Chicago
Dr. Elissa Grossman, DC brings over 30 years of clinical experience treating osteoarthritis in patients across Chicago. Her approach focuses on improving joint function, movement quality, and mechanical balance to help reduce stress on arthritic joints.
At Chiropractic Chicago, osteoarthritis care emphasizes conservative, movement-based strategies rather than forceful or invasive approaches. Dr. Grossman works closely with patients to explain their condition, guide appropriate care, and provide long-term support aimed at maintaining mobility, comfort, and joint health.
Book Complimentary Consultation for Osteoarthritis Treatment in Chicago
If you are experiencing osteoarthritis symptoms in Chicago, Dr. Elissa Grossman, DC can help evaluate your joint health and discuss appropriate treatment options. Call (312) 248-3002 or Book Online using the booking tool below:
Osteoarthritis Patient FAQs
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that develops when the structures within a joint begin to change over time. It is often described as a wear-and-tear condition, but it also involves changes in joint movement, muscle support, and joint mechanics.
As the joint experiences repeated stress, its ability to move smoothly can decrease, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Osteoarthritis tends to progress gradually and may affect one or multiple joints.
How does osteoarthritis affect the joints?
- Reduces smooth joint movement
- Causes stiffness and limited range of motion
- Alters how weight and force are distributed through the joint
- Leads to increased stress on surrounding muscles and ligaments
- Can change posture and movement patterns over time
What are the early signs of osteoarthritis?
- Joint stiffness after resting or sleeping
- Mild aching during or after activity
- Reduced flexibility or difficulty moving the joint fully
- Discomfort that improves with gentle movement
- Symptoms that come and go rather than staying constant
What are the symptoms of advanced osteoarthritis?
- Persistent joint stiffness
- Noticeable loss of mobility
- Increased discomfort with daily activities
- Difficulty walking, standing, gripping, or lifting
- Joint swelling or visible changes in joint shape
- Reduced balance or stability due to limited joint function
Which joints are most commonly affected by osteoarthritis?
- Knees due to weight-bearing and repetitive stress
- Hips from walking and standing demands
- Spine from posture and movement strain
- Hands from frequent daily use
- Shoulders from overhead and repetitive movements
Can osteoarthritis be treated without surgery?
Yes. Many patients manage osteoarthritis with conservative care focused on joint mobility, movement quality, posture, and muscle support. Surgery is typically considered only when joint function is severely limited and conservative options no longer help.
Can chiropractic care help with osteoarthritis?
Chiropractic care can help by improving joint movement, reducing mechanical stress, and supporting healthier movement patterns. It does not reverse joint changes but can help joints move more comfortably and efficiently.
What chiropractic techniques are used for osteoarthritis treatment?
Techniques may include gentle joint adjustments, joint mobilization, soft tissue techniques, posture correction, and guided movement or strengthening exercises. All techniques are selected based on joint condition and comfort level.
Does chiropractic care reduce osteoarthritis pain?
Many patients experience reduced discomfort as joint movement improves and surrounding muscle tension decreases. Improved function often leads to better tolerance for daily activities.
How long does osteoarthritis treatment take?
Treatment length varies depending on joint involvement, severity, symptom duration, and activity level. Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition, so care often focuses on ongoing management rather than a fixed timeline.
Is chiropractic treatment painful for arthritis?
No. Chiropractic care for osteoarthritis is designed to be gentle and controlled. Techniques are adapted to joint sensitivity, stiffness, and patient comfort.
Do I need imaging before starting osteoarthritis treatment?
Imaging is not always required. X-rays or other imaging may be recommended if symptoms are severe, worsening, or unclear after examination.
What results can you expect from osteoarthritis treatment?
Patients often notice improved joint mobility, reduced stiffness, better movement confidence, and increased ability to perform daily activities. Results vary based on individual condition and consistency of care.
When should you seek treatment for osteoarthritis?
Evaluation is recommended when stiffness, discomfort, or reduced movement begins affecting daily tasks, balance, or independence. Early care helps support joint function.
What lifestyle changes help manage osteoarthritis symptoms?
Helpful changes include regular low-impact movement, posture awareness, joint-friendly exercise, weight management, activity modification, and proper footwear or ergonomic support.
Is chiropractic care safe for older adults with osteoarthritis?
Yes. Chiropractic care is commonly used by older adults. Treatment is conservative, individualized, and adjusted to joint condition, bone health, and mobility level.
