Imagine the aches, groans, and pains of arthritis—the irritating stiffness and pain that is often felt in the joints. With 21.3% of adults diagnosed with arthritis, it is a common condition for people of all ages and is often difficult to manage. However, chiropractic care is proving to be an effective way to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with this condition. Chiropractic care is a safe and natural approach to dealing with arthritis, which is why it is becoming increasingly popular.
In this blog post, we’ll look at who is affected by arthritis, the various types of arthritis, what to expect from a chiropractor, and is chiropractic care safe for arthritis.
Who is Affected By Arthritis?
According to the CDC, arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States. It is estimated that 58 million adults have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis.
People who are older or overweight are more likely to be affected by this condition than others. Women also tend to develop arthritis at a higher rate than men, especially after menopause when estrogen is reduced.
Plus, one in three patients reported that their diagnosis was due to their work or lifestyle, such as sitting for long periods of time or engaging in strenuous activity.
Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis
There are many signs and symptoms of arthritis that you should be aware of:
- joint pain
- stiffness
- joint swelling
- tenderness
- reduced range of motion
- and fatigue.
Depending on the type of arthritis present — osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis — the symptoms may be different.
The Two Main Types of Arthritis
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There are two main types of arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type, typically affecting older adults due to wear and tear on the joints over time. It is caused by the breakdown of cartilage that is supposed to cushion the bones and is often seen in the hands, hips, knees, and spine.
Obesity, inactivity, and joint injuries can also increase the risk of developing this type of arthritis due to the calcification of the ligamentous structures of the joints. These changes can manifest in different ways, including pain and swelling in the affected joints as well as decreased range of movement.
Osteoarthritis typically presents in the hands, hips, and knees, and is often seen in the spine. While NSAIDs and corticosteroids can be used to manage pain and swelling, they come with side effects that can be uncomfortable.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Less common than osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body is mistakenly attacking healthy cells. It is a chronic condition that is marked by inflammation of the joints and is often seen in younger adults, and women more than men.
Also, it is characterized by inflammation that is caused by the body attacking healthy cells, leading to joint pain, fatigue, and swelling. Furthermore, rheumatoid arthritis is not hereditary and is more common in smokers than non-smokers.
Rheumatoid arthritis tends to present in the wrists, elbows, shoulders, and hips. Also, if left untreated, it can develop into joint deformities. Immunosuppressants, steroids, and biologics are often prescribed but they can also have long-term side effects.
What to Expect From a Chiropractor
Vertebral subluxations are the culprit behind a lot of joint pain, interrupting the flow of information between the brain and body. It can trigger an inflammatory response that is both painful and disruptive to the body’s functioning.
A chiropractor is trained to identify these subluxations and correct them through adjustments and other treatments. By doing so, pain is relieved, inflammation is reduced, and mobility is improved.
This is done through a variety of techniques, including spinal manipulation and massage therapy to reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility. Depending on the severity of the condition, chiropractic adjustments may be done in succession over some time.
When you visit a chiropractor, you can expect a comprehensive treatment plan that includes collaborating with other specialists such as a dietician, to continue conservative management of your condition.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe For Arthritis?
Chiropractic is a safe and effective treatment for arthritis, especially when combined with other treatments such as physical therapy, exercise, and proper nutrition. However, certain patients may not be eligible for chiropractic care due to their medical history or the type of arthritis they have.
It is important to speak with your certified Gonstead chiropractor before beginning any chiropractic treatment so that you can ensure it is right for you.
Chiropractic Care In Colorado
Managing arthritis is no easy task, but with the help of a chiropractor in Colorado, you can find relief from the pain and inflammation that is associated with this condition. Through regular adjustments and supportive treatments, chiropractic care is an effective way to reduce symptoms and improve overall health.
At Concise Chiropractic, we provide holistic Gonstead chiropractic care to help manage the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis.
Our expertise is in utilizing Gonstead chiropractic techniques, which is a hands-on approach to spinal manipulation that is customized for each patient’s individual needs. Through this method of treatment, we can assess your condition and develop a personalized plan to address any issues.
