Osteoarthritis - Female
What Does It Mean?
- Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation, inflammation, and joint pain.
- Functional medicine approaches osteoarthritis by identifying and addressing the root causes of inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutritional deficiencies that contribute to joint deterioration.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Chronic Inflammation: Elevated inflammatory markers accelerate joint damage.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Low levels of essential vitamins and minerals weaken joint structures.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women can contribute to OA progression.
- Excessive Mechanical Stress: Repetitive joint strain and obesity increase the risk of cartilage breakdown.
- Oxidative Stress: Free radical damage contributes to tissue degeneration.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility
- Swelling and tenderness around affected joints
- Crepitus (grating sensation during movement)
- Morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes
- Muscle weakness around affected joints
Diagnostic Lab Findings
The following lab tests assess inflammation, bone health, and nutrient status:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Alkaline Phosphatase | Increased | 45.00-100.00 U/L |
| Basophil % | Normal | 0.00-1.00 % |
| C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) | Increased | 0.00-0.55 mg/L |
| Calcium | Normal | 8.90-9.50 mg/dL |
| DHEA Sulfate | Decreased | 150.00-250.00 µg/dL |
| Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) | Increased | 0.00-1.00 mm/hr |
| Magnesium, RBC | Decreased | 6.00-6.80 mg/dL |
| Magnesium, Serum | Decreased | 2.20-2.50 mg/dL |
| Uric Acid | Normal | 3.50-5.40 mg/dL |
| Vitamin D25-OH, Total | Decreased | 45-65 ng/mL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, supporting cartilage health, and improving joint mobility.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Provides antioxidant support and reduces oxidative stress | ½ scoop of powder with food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle and nerve function, reduces inflammation | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita-D | Essential for immune function and bone health | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic inflammation and supports joint health | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| OsteoPrev | Supports bone and joint integrity | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vascuzyme | Aids in circulation and inflammation control | 2 capsules without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Provides comprehensive nutritional support | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vita-Omega | Provides essential omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA) to support joint health | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Supports joint and connective tissue health | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Increase intake of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids while avoiding processed foods.
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint strain.
- Regular Movement: Engage in low-impact exercises such as swimming, yoga, and resistance training.
- Joint Protection: Implement ergonomic modifications and supportive footwear.
- Stress Management: Reduce cortisol-induced inflammation through mindfulness and relaxation techniques.