Did you know that doctors have discovered more than 100 different types of arthritis? Characterised by stiffness and pain found within the joints, this condition affects millions of individuals from all age groups. Not only can it negatively impact your quality of life, but many activities that you may have enjoyed in the past could be difficult to perform. Therefore, seeking professional treatment is an excellent way to ensure that the symptoms associated with arthritis are kept in check. Thankfully, chiropractors are often able to provide you with a viable form of relief. Let us take a look at some methods which are employed as well as how each can help.
How Will a Chiropractor Approach Arthritis Treatment?
It is first important to note that the exact therapy will depend upon the type of arthritis you may have, its location and your past medical history. Thus, no two approaches are ever the same. This also helps to ensure that you enjoy the most favourable outcome. After all, the main goal is to restore your mobility and to help ease your pain.
Chiropractors will often use treatments that manually adjust the position of your spine, joints, and connective tissue. The structure of your body will relate to how well it functions, so even the slightest of manipulations can have a massive impact on your well-being.
Your chiropractor will carry out a thorough assessment prior to starting your treatment and there may be times when an x-ray is required. This allows them to better appreciate which techniques are the most appropriate for your situation.
What Strategies Could be Employed?
Although chiropractors have always been known for their “hands-on” expertise, modern technology has also come a long way. This is why there are other options at your disposal. Depending upon your condition, here are some common examples:
- Ultrasound therapy to decrease pain and reduce swelling.
- Stimulating muscles and nerves with electrotherapy.
- Low-level lasers which penetrate into deeper muscles that may have become inflamed.
Interestingly enough, it is often possible to effectively treat an arthritic joint by addressing the nearby muscles and connective tissues. Alleviating the pain within these secondary areas could very well provide the results that you have been looking for. Once again, this is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Is Chiropractic Care for Arthritis Safe?
Pain caused by osteoarthritis (such as discomfort within the neck or back) can be safely treated through the use of chiropractic methods. However, some inflammatory diseases may require different methods. Examples include psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis. As all of these are associated with considerable amounts of swelling within the joints, chiropractic adjustments are normally not recommended. This is why consulting with a trained professional is always important.
Relief May be Just Around the Corner
Are you tired of living with constant arthritic pain and discomfort? Has this condition negatively impacted your quality of life? If so, please contact our clinic today to book your initial appointment, so we can help to alleviate some of your discomforts.