Chicago Chiropractor and Arthritis

Introduction

One of the most commonly misunderstood conditions among people is arthritis..Often the word, “arthritis,” brings to mind a future that includes crippled and twisted joints.  However “arthritis” is a very general word that includes 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

The most common form of arthritis has many names: osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, degenerative joint disease (DJD), and spondylosis if it is in the spine. This form of arthritis is not limited to humans, but occurs in all mammals, and is due to the deterioration of the cartilage that lines the joint surfaces. Degenerative changes in the joint takes place when joint cartilage is injured and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is usually preserved by the cartilage. Occasionally, osteophytes, or bone spurs, can occur when the bone around the joint proliferates. Bone spurs create painful hypersensitivity to other tissues adjacent to the joint complicating the already grievous condition. 

As a rule areas of the body that develop degenerative joints are in the spine, especially 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. As the condition advances there can be loss of mobility, particularly when weight-bearing joints such as hips or knees are involved.  As a last resort joints can be surgically replaced with synthetic devices. This should be done only in severe cases where the joint is appreciably worn and movement is impossible without severe pain.

Prevention is unquestionably the best option, beginning at an early age.

• One should always make sure that, especially when young, all injuries to joints are correctly managed to insure proper healing to avoid future disability.
• Shoes with proper support and shock absorption should be worn by those whose jobs necessitate extended periods of standing or walking.
• Excess body weight can create increased stress upon the weight bearing joints of the body.

• Care should be taken to guard knees from pain aad strain when kneeling on hard surfaces.

• 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.

Recently there have been some studies that show that the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can help with DJD and might help rebuild joint cartilage. However, it must be used over time and does not work in all conditions.

Chiropractic adjustments are not only sound, but an efficient treatment for arthritis, and can aid in the restoration of proper mobility and function to the spinal joints, thereby giving patients great relief. Your Chicago chiropractor has many of years of expertise in helping people with arthritis pain. In addition, chiropractic modalities such as joint mobilization, ultrasound, cold laser therapy, massage and electro-therapy may be used to aid in the treatment of painful and stiff joints. Occasionally, a brace is required to secure the joint and relieve pain. A chiropractor may suggest exercises such as stretching, yoga, tai chi and other gentle mobilizing activities to help maintain arthritic joints.

Gout

Gouty arthritis is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood and the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Generally, gouty arthritis is characterized by severe pain and swelling of the joints in the big toes, knees, ankles and wrists. Most people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are generally brought on by binge eating of inflammatory foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Particular foods such as red meat (especially organ meat), certain seafood, legumes, and mushrooms contain the natural substance, Purines, that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. Since individuals with gout cannot properly metabolize uric acid, the increase in the bloodstream creates joint problems. In addition to the foods mentioned and additional foods containing Purines, other dietary restrictions need to be followed including the avoidance of alcohol.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of systemic origin. The principal cause is not known, but it is thought to be associated with 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, though other areas of the body can be affected as well. Morning stiffness aggravated by movement is most often associated with the disease. Many times people complain of general malaise and fatigue, and the disease in its more advanced forms can affect many of the other body systems. 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 adjustments. 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 assisting individuals in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis.

Can Chiropractic Therapies Help Arthritis?

HIP PAIN ,COMMON CAUSES- Everything You Need To Know – Dr. Nabil Ebraheim

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