By Introduction
Chronic pain caused by arthritis in the spine can be hard to handle. Fortunately, chiropractic care has been proven to work. Through joint manipulation, realignment and adjustments, chiropractors help reduce pain and rigidity.
This article will explain the advantages of chiropractic care more thoroughly. It will also go over the evidence that backs up its effectiveness.
Definition of Arthritis
Arthritis is a term for over 100 diseases that cause joint pain, stiffness and swelling. The two most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis which both affect the spine.
Osteoarthritis is when bones and cartilage in a joint become damaged. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder which causes inflammation of joints leading to destruction over time.
Signs of osteoarthritis include
- joint pain
- tenderness
- stiffness
- difficulty moving, lifting objects and walking upstairs
- decreasing range of motion
- numbness
Rheumatoid arthritis causes
- localized pain in joints
- fatigue
- muscle weakness
- swollen fingers or toes
- warm red skin
- enlarged fingers or toes
Chiropractic care is a safe alternative for those suffering from these arthritic pains. It offers relief without surgery or drugs by manipulating the spine and using manual therapy techniques.
Definition of Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a natural, non-invasive form of healthcare. It focuses on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders. It is a holistic approach and is based on the idea that the body can heal itself when properly aligned.
Chiropractic treatments are used to reduce pain in the back, neck, hands, and feet. They do this by manipulating the joints. Techniques used include:
- Spinal manipulation
- Adjusting techniques
- Stretching exercises
- Physical modalities (ultrasound, electrical stimulation)
- Nutritional advice
- Diet monitoring
- Lifestyle counseling
- Stress management
- Home exercise programs
Chiropractors work with clients to identify lifestyle activities/habits that have caused pain. These can include tension headaches, extremity numbness/tingling, sciatica, generalised muscular tension/stiffness/pain and joint pain.
Types of Arthritis
Arthritis is a collective term for medical issues that affect the joints and bones. The usual types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. These conditions arise from inflammation in the joint plus the nearby tissue.
Let’s take a look at the distinct types of arthritis and how chiropractic care can help to manage related back pain.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, also known as ‘wear and tear arthritis’, is the most common type of the condition. It’s a chronic, degenerative joint disease caused by aging or overusing a joint. Symptoms include pain, tenderness around the joint(s), stiffness, swelling, and deformity.
Diagnosis usually involves X-rays or MRI scans, and physical examinations.
Chiropractic treatment may be an option when pain relief options are limited or ineffective. Spinal manipulation can help keep joints in proper alignment and prevent further damage to joint tissues. Stretching exercises can improve range of motion in areas causing discomfort. Other therapies, such as electrical muscle stimulation or ultrasound therapy, may reduce inflammation in the areas around damaged joints. Your doctor or chiropractor will create a personalized care plan to determine the best treatment(s) for you.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic illness. It affects the immune system and causes joint pain, swelling, stiffness and disability. It’s an autoimmune issue, meaning that the body’s own defence system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue and joints, leading to inflammation. This can cause pain and deformity.
The reason behind RA is not known. But, it is believed to be linked with heredity and environmental factors such as smoking and advanced age. Usually, this disorder affects people between 30 and 50 years of age. Women are more likely to suffer from RA than men.
Treatment for RA includes:
- Medications to reduce inflammation.
- Exercise and physical therapy.
- Chiropractic care to restore the spine’s alignment, by reducing tension on nerves caused by RA-related misalignments.
Chiropractors use manual treatment and gentle techniques to ease musculoskeletal discomfort due to RA.
Juvenile Arthritis
Juvenile arthritis is a chronic, painful form of joint inflammation that occurs in children aged 16 and younger. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) are the two most common types. While causes are unknown, several treatment plans are available, including chiropractic care.
Chiropractic care can provide relief from juvenile arthritis pain. Adjustments help restore function to stiff joints, and stretching exercises can reduce inflammation. Stiff muscles, which often accompany juvenile arthritis, can lead to scoliosis, lower back pain and headaches. A chiropractor can improve posture and flexibility, allowing your child to get back to activities like sports or exercise.
A qualified chiropractor will assess the condition, and develop a plan of treatment sessions tailored to the individual needs of each patient with either JRA or JIA:
The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Arthritis-Related Back Pain
Chiropractic care can be helpful for treating pain from arthritis in the back. It concentrates on body imbalances that may give rise to pain and unease. Through assessing and modifying the spine, a chiropractor may be able to reduce discomfort and better mobility.
Let’s now look at the advantages of chiropractic care for those with back pain connected to arthritis:
Improved Range of Motion
Chiropractic care can be incredibly helpful for people with arthritis-related back pain. The chiropractor uses manipulation, stretching, and other techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness. This helps reduce pain and increase function.
Regular visits to the chiropractor can even help prevent further damage. They also prescribe exercises and stretches to maintain mobility and restore proper alignment in aching joints, as well as improve posture.
Increased joint motion also increases circulation throughout the body, including to the spine and muscles around arthritic areas. This better supports the body with nutrients, allowing muscles to heal faster and giving more comfort to those dealing with chronic pain caused by arthritis-related conditions.
Manual adjustments, exercises, and stretches given by a chiropractor can provide powerful relief from arthritis-related back problems when addressed regularly over time.
Reduced Pain and Inflammation
Chiropractic care is an effective, holistic approach for managing arthritis-related back pain. Adjustments, or manipulations, seek to reduce inflammation, joint restriction, and nerve stress. This leads to less pain and discomfort. Manipulating the spinal column can help restore range of motion. Thus, allowing for better movement.
Chiropractors may also suggest lifestyle modifications, such as:
- Shedding weight
- Exercises that can help improve flexibility and strengthen muscles around affected joints
These modifications can greatly improve the quality of life for those with chronic arthritic back pain.
Increased Strength and Flexibility
Chiropractic care is a popular choice to treat all kinds of back pain, including arthritis-related pain. Adjustments, when done correctly, can help boost joint function and reduce inflammation. Chiropractors also focus on strengthening and stretching, by providing better posture and spinal alignment. This helps to ease the stress on arthritic joints, which are linked to back pain.
The chiropractor will assess the patient’s range of motion and use certain adjustments to improve body functioning, stability and comfort. Sessions also offer life advice, like
- exercise regimens for more strength, range of motion and flexibility
- diet plans for ongoing support
Whether your goal is to handle chronic pain or lessen flares related to arthritis-related back pain, chiropractic care is a useful way to reach it.
How to Find a Qualified Chiropractor
Searching for a chiropractor to ease your back pain caused by arthritis? It’s essential to find the right one. Research is key! Make sure you’re in safe hands with a professional who is experienced and qualified.
Here are some tips to help you locate the perfect chiropractor:
Research Credentials and Experience
Researching a chiropractor’s credentials and experience is important when looking for one. Ask questions about their background, like what degree they have, if they have certifications in chiropractic treatment, and their experience treating arthritis-related back pain. See if they have had successful patients who had the same condition as you.
You can also look into professional organizations related to chiropractic care. They provide accurate and updated information on chiropractic specialties and procedures. Plus they can offer recommendations on qualified chiropractors near you who could help with your condition.
Ask for Referrals
If you’re considering seeing a chiropractor for back pain related to arthritis, it’s important to find qualified and experienced professionals. Ask your network for recommendations. Your family doctor or other healthcare providers like physical therapists and massage therapists may have advice or be able to give referrals.
Check professional organizations for endorsements of chiropractors. For example, many U.S.-based chiropractors are part of the American Chiropractic Association (ACA). The ACA shows years of experience for each member with links to their website, contact info, and previous patient testimonials. Look for certifications or specializations that can help you choose the best option.
Check credentials when selecting any type of practitioner. Potential chiropractors should hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree or have an advanced certification from a specialty college that follows the ACA’s standards.
Conclusion
To wrap up, though research is scarce about this issue, there is some proof that chiropractic care may help folks with back pain related to arthritis. We need more research to confirm these studies and to see the impact of combining chiropractic care with other treatments.
If you’re thinking about chiropractic care for your back pain, chat with your doctor and think about working with a certified and experienced chiropractor near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is arthritis-related back pain?
Arthritis-related back pain is a type of pain that occurs in the back as a result of arthritis, which is the inflammation of the joints characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling.
2. Can chiropractic care help with arthritis-related back pain?
Yes, chiropractic care can help with arthritis-related back pain. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to help reduce pain and inflammation, improve joint mobility, and promote overall health and wellness.
3. How does chiropractic care help with arthritis-related back pain?
Chiropractic care can help with arthritis-related back pain by improving alignment, reducing inflammation, increasing joint mobility, and improving circulation. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques, such as spinal manipulation, massage therapy, and rehabilitative exercises, to help patients manage their pain and improve their quality of life.
4. Is chiropractic care safe for people with arthritis-related back pain?
Yes, chiropractic care is generally safe for people with arthritis-related back pain. Chiropractors are trained professionals who use gentle, non-invasive techniques to help reduce pain and improve joint function. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment or therapy.
5. How long does it take to see results from chiropractic care for arthritis-related back pain?
The length of time it takes to see results from chiropractic care for arthritis-related back pain varies depending on the individual and the severity of their condition. Some patients may experience relief after just one or two sessions, while others may need several weeks or months of regular treatment to achieve lasting results.
6. Is chiropractic care covered by insurance for arthritis-related back pain?
Chiropractic care is often covered by insurance for arthritis-related back pain. However, it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine what specific treatments and services are covered under your plan.
