What Is the Best Treatment for Arthritis in Lower Back and Hips?

by Matson Huff | Jun 12, 2023 | Back Pain

Arthritis of the lower back and hips refers to the inflammation and degeneration of the joints in these areas. The most common forms of arthritis that affect the lower back and hips are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears away, leading to bone-on-bone contact. Osteoarthritis in the lower back and hips can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. It is often associated with aging, previous injuries, or repetitive stress on the joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, resulting in inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple joints, including those in the lower back and hips. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, swelling, fatigue, and joint deformities.

Arthritis in the lower back and hips can cause chronic pain, difficulty with movement, and reduced quality of life. It can be exacerbated by factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, or improper posture. Treatment focuses on managing pain, reducing inflammation, and improving joint function to enhance mobility and overall well-being.

The diagnosis of arthritis of the lower back and hips typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, imaging studies, and sometimes laboratory tests. 

Based on the findings from these evaluations, your healthcare professional can determine if you have arthritis in the lower back and hips and, if so, which type of arthritis. This will help guide the appropriate treatment plan for managing your symptoms and improving your joint health.

What Are Treatment Options for Arthritis of Lower Back and Hips?

The treatment options for arthritis of the lower back and hips aim to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life. The specific treatment approach will depend on factors such as the type and severity of arthritis, individual needs, and preferences. Here are some common treatment options:

1. Medications:
   • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over the counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can help reduce pain and inflammation.
   • Analgesics: Pain relievers such as acetaminophen may be used to manage pain.
   • Topical medications: Creams, gels, or patches containing NSAIDs, or capsaicin can provide localized pain relief.
   • Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroid injections into the affected joints may be recommended for short-term pain relief and reduced inflammation.
2. Physical therapy:
   • A physical therapist can develop an exercise program to improve joint flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and enhance overall function.
   • Manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilization or manipulation, may be used to reduce pain and improve joint mobility.
   • Heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation may be incorporated to relieve pain and inflammation.
3. Assistive devices:
   • Using assistive devices like canes, crutches, or walkers can help reduce stress on the joints and improve mobility.
   • Orthotic devices, such as shoe inserts or supportive braces, can provide stability and alleviate joint pressure.
4. Lifestyle modifications:
   • Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on the joints.
   • Regular exercise, such as low-impact activities like swimming or cycling, can improve joint flexibility and strength.
   • Good posture and body mechanics can help minimize strain on the lower back and hips.
5. Heat and cold therapy:
   • Applying heat or cold packs to the affected areas can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
6. Complementary therapies:
   • Techniques like acupuncture, yoga, tai chi, or massage therapy may provide pain relief and improve joint function for some individuals.
7. Surgical interventions:
   • In severe cases of arthritis that don’t respond to conservative treatments, surgical options like joint replacement or joint fusion may be considered. These are typically considered when conservative measures have been exhausted and arthritis significantly impacts daily life.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a rheumatologist or orthopedic specialist, to discuss your symptoms, receive an accurate diagnosis, and develop a personalized treatment plan that suits your specific needs. Some patients are exploring non traditional options such as regenerative medicine. 

Regenerative Medicine for Arthritis of Lower Back and Hips

Regenerative Medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, utilizes the properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These cells have gained attention as a potential treatment for arthritis, including arthritis of the lower back and hips. MSCs are a type of stem cell that can differentiate into various cell types, including bone, cartilage, and fat cells. They also possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which are beneficial for managing arthritis.

While research on the use of MSCs for arthritis is still ongoing and evolving, several studies have explored their potential benefits. Here are some important points to consider:

1. Mechanism of action: MSCs have the ability to differentiate into chondrocytes (cartilage cells) and promote the production of cartilage tissue. They can also modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the joints.
2. Administration: MSCs can be administered in various ways, such as through injections directly into the affected joints or through intravenous infusion. The specific method of administration may vary depending on the study protocol and the expertise of the healthcare provider.
3. Research findings: Preliminary research and clinical trials have shown promising results regarding the use of MSCs for arthritis. Some studies have reported improvements in pain, joint function, and quality of life in patients with arthritis, including those with lower back and hip involvement. However, it’s important to note that more extensive research is needed to establish the long-term safety and efficacy of MSC therapy for arthritis.

If you are considering MSC therapy for arthritis, it’s important to research and determine if this is a good option for you. Finding a quality provider can help you make an informed decision about the potential risks and benefits. To learn more about treatment options for arthritis in lower back and hips call us today at Stemedix!

How to Relieve Lower Back Pain

by Matson Huff | Mar 20, 2023 | Back Pain

Lower back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide and can be caused by several factors. It is estimated that about 80% of adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. Here we will discuss how to relieve lower back pain.

While some cases of lower back pain are mild and can be easily treated at home, others may require medical attention.  If you are experiencing lower back pain, it is important to seek a medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause so an appropriate treatment plan can be developed to help relieve symptoms.

Causes of Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain can be caused by several factors, including:

1. Poor Posture: Sitting or standing for long periods in the wrong posture can cause lower back pain.
2. Injury: An injury to the lower back, such as a sprain or strain, can cause pain.
3. Herniated Disc: A herniated disc can cause lower back pain by pressing on the nerves in the lower back.
4. Arthritis: Arthritis can cause inflammation in the joints of the lower back, leading to pain.
5. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis weakens the bones in the spine, making them more prone to fractures.

Symptoms of Lower Back Pain

1. Lower back pain can manifest in various ways, including:
2. Dull or sharp pain in the lower back.
3. Pain that radiates to the legs.
4. Stiffness in the lower back.
5. Numbness or tingling sensation in the legs.
6. Weakness in the legs.

Relief Options for Lower Back Pain

Exercise: Exercise is an important part of managing low back pain. Regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles that support the lower back, improve flexibility and range of motion, and reduce the risk of future injuries.

Stretching: Gentle stretching can help relieve tension in the muscles and alleviate pain. Remember to listen to your body and move slowly and gently, especially if you’re experiencing pain.

Heat Therapy: Also known as thermotherapy, this therapy can help to relax muscles and increase blood flow to the affected area, which can be helpful in reducing muscle tension and stiffness.

Cold Therapy: Also known as cryotherapy, this therapy can help reduce inflammation and swelling. It can be most helpful in the first 48-72 hours after a back injury using the 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off timing method. 

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain. Be sure to speak to your healthcare provider on which options are best for you.

Massage Therapy: Massage therapy can be an effective treatment option for lower back pain, as it can help to relax tight muscles, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation. However, it’s important to note that massage therapy should be used in conjunction with other treatments and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care involves the manual manipulation and other techniques to help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore function.

Regenerative Medicine for Lower Back Pain

Regenerative medicine is a rapidly growing field of medicine that focuses on inflammation and the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues. In recent years, regenerative medicine has shown promise in the treatment of lower back pain. There are several regenerative medicine techniques that are being used to treat lower back pain, including:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting a concentrated dose of platelets, growth factors, and other healing factors derived from the patient’s own blood into the damaged area of the lower back. These growth factors promote tissue repair and regeneration, reducing inflammation and pain.

Stem cell therapy: Stem cell therapy involves injecting stem cells derived from the patient’s own bone marrow or adipose tissue into the damaged area of the lower back. These stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various types of cells, including bone, cartilage, and muscle cells, which can help repair and regenerate damaged tissues.

Prolotherapy: Prolotherapy involves injecting a solution of dextrose or other irritants into the damaged area of the lower back. This solution stimulates the body’s natural healing process, promoting tissue repair and regeneration.While regenerative medicine techniques have shown promise on the effectiveness and safety for treatment of lower back pain, research will continue to help build on this foundation of studies. It is also important to note that these treatments may not be appropriate for all patients and should only be performed by trained medical professionals. If you are experiencing lower back pain, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition.