Arthritis and Chiropractic Care
ByChicago Chiropractor and Arthritis
Introduction
Arthritis is more often than not confusing to most suffers.When some people hear this word they contemplate a future with crippled and twisted joints. However “arthritis” is a very general word that comprises many different conditions from the benign to the severe. For our purposes we will confine this discussion to the most common forms of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care
Osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, or degenerative joint disease (DJD) are the names for the most common form of arthritis, which is also called, spondylosis, if it occurs in the spine. This form of arthritis is not limited to humans, but occurs in all mammals, and is due to the degradation of the cartilage that lines the joint surfaces. Degenerative changes in the joint takes place when joint cartilage is harmed and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is normally preserved by the cartilage. Sometimes, osteophytes, or bone spurs, can occur when the bone around the joint proliferates. Bone spurs produce painful inflammation to other tissues surrounding the joint aggravating the already grievous condition.
As a rule areas of the body that develop degenerative joints are in the spine, particularly in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, the hips and the fingers. Previous trauma, certain occupations and activities, weight, diet, and heredity all appear to impact both the onset and severity of DJD.
Pain and/or stiffness in the affected joints are primary indicators of DJD. If the weight-bearing joints, such as the hips or knees are involved, ones mobility can be affected especially in the more advanced stages of the condition. In some cases, if the joint is sufficiently worn and the person can no longer walk without severe pain, the joints are surgically replaced with synthetic devices. Of course, one should make an effort to manage the condition early on in ones life to avoid the need for surgery.
The best management of DJD is, of course, prevention that involves taking care of ones joints at an early age.
- Making sure that all injuries to joints are correctly treated will help to avoid future problems.
- People involved in occupations that necessitate standing or walking should wear appropriate shoes that give good support and shock absorption.
- Excess body weight can create increased stress upon the weight bearing joints of the body.
- Avoid kneeling on hard surfaces, such as when doing housework, as this can put strain and produce knee pain.
- Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables as they have natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for the health of the joints, as well as the rest of the body.
Recent studies have shown that long-term use of the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can not only assist with DJD symptoms, but can possibly help to rebuild joint cartilage.
Chiropractic adjustments aid in the restoration of proper mobility and function to the spinal joints. Chiropractic care is not only a smart idea, but extremely effective in relieving the debilitating pain of arthritis. Your Chicago chiropractor is highly skilled when it comes to arthritic pain relief. Other forms of chiropractic care may include joint mobilization, massage, ultrasound, cold laser, or electro-therapy, all of which may be helpful in the relief of painful and stiff joints. Occasionally a brace is used to help stabilize the joint in an effort to alleviate pain. Movement is vital to the maintenance of arthritic joints. A chiropractor often suggests gentle, mobilizing activities such as stretching, yoga, and tai chi can be beneficial.
Gout
An increased level of uric acid in the blood and the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints cause gouty arthritis. Generally, gouty arthritis is characterized by acute pain and swelling of the joints in the big toes, knees, ankles and wrists. Many people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are more often than not brought on by binge eating of the wrong foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Foods that need to be avoided have a natural substance called Purines that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. Individuals with this condition cannot properly metabolize uric acid, thus the accumulation in the bloodstream and the ensuing joint problems. The foods most associated with high purine content are: red meat especially organ meat, certain seafood, legumes, mushrooms and other foods as well. There are other dietary restrictions that must be followed including avoiding alcohol.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of systemic origin. The primary cause is not known, but it is thought to be due to a problem with the immune system. The most common joints affected are the small joints of the hands and fingers, the feet, knees, and shoulder, although other areas of the body can be affected as well. The condition is most often associated with morning stiffness that is aggravated by motion. Further symptoms can include general malaise and fatigue, and in its more advanced stages other systems of the body may be affected. There are definitive blood tests to help identify Rheumatoid arthritis that can be easily run. Management includes medication and vitamin and diet therapy, as well as chiropractic treatments. In addition, joint mobilization and modalities such as ultrasound, heat, electro-therapy and massage can help with the pain and stiffness associated the condition. Your Chicago chiropractor is dedicated to supporting sufferers in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis.