Introduction
One of the most commonly misunderstood conditions among people is arthritis..When some people hear this word they contemplate a future with crippled and twisted joints. However “arthritis” is generic word that includes many different conditions from the benign to the severe. For our purposes we will restrict this analysis to the most common forms of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care
The most common form of arthritis has many terms: osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, degenerative joint disease (DJD), and spondylosis if it is in the spine. Essentially, the condition is due to the deterioration of the cartilage that lines the joint surfaces, and it is found not only in humans, but also in all mammals. Degenerative changes in the joint takes place when joint cartilage is harmed and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is usually guarded by the cartilage. Sometimes the bone around the joint will proliferate and make osteophytes, or what are more commonly called bone spurs. These spurs can cause painful irritation to other tissues surrounding the joint, therefore complicating the already painful condition.
Degenerative joints principally occur in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, hips, and fingers. Previous trauma, certain occupations and activities, weight, diet, and heredity all appear to influence 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 particularly in the more advanced stages of the condition. In some cases, if the joint is appreciably 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.
Prevention is unquestionably the best option, beginning at an early age.
- Making sure that all injuries to joints are appropriately treated will help to avoid future problems.
- Shoes with proper support and shock absorption should be worn by those whose jobs necessitate extended periods of standing or walking.
- Weight loss through proper diet will help to decrease stress on weight-bearing body joints.
- Care should be taken to cushion 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 may actually help rebuild joint cartilage. However, it must be used over an extended period and does not work in all conditions.
Chiropractic adjustments assist in restoring 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 experienced when it comes to arthritic pain relief. 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. On occasion a brace is required to help stabilize the joint in an attempt to alleviate 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 produced by increased levels of uric acid in the blood and the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. The most common joints are the big toes, the knees, ankles and wrists, and is often characterized by acute pain and swelling. 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 include a natural substance called Purines that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. Those with this condition cannot efficiently metabolize uric acid, thus the accumulation in the bloodstream and the subsequent joint problems. The foods most connected 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 the avoidance of alcohol.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of systemic origin. The direct cause is not known, but it is thought to be connected 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, while other areas of the body can be affected as well. The condition is usually associated with morning stiffness that is aggravated by motion. Further symptoms can involve general malaise and fatigue, and in its more advanced stages other systems of the body may be affected. Rheumatoid arthritis can be easily identified through definitive blood tests. 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 assisting individuals in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis.
Mail this postPopularity: 2% [?]
