Arthritis is a common disorder. The pain from arthritis can range from stiffness to debilitating discomfort. Fortunately there are ways of managing arthritis pain, beyond medication. There are various types of arthritis, with the most common being Osteoarthritis (OA) – a “wear and tear” joint deterioration. The cartilage, discs and surfaces between bones start to deteriorate, become fibrotic, and scar tissues develops This can progress to fusion of joints and bony spur formation.
Many are mislead to believe that arthritis is caused by “your age” specifically your “old age”. Contrary to that believe, the root of Osteoarthritis is the result of joints that are not moving properly (subluxation being one reversible cause corrected by your family Chiropractor) and/or joints that have sustained trauma. Young and old can be encumbered by “wear and tear” arthritis. In addition, this form of arthritis progresses through different stages of break down that occur overtime. The process is not usually a painful process until the degeneration becomes markedly advanced.
Early detection of arthritis causing spinal dysfunctions (vertebral subluxations) can help prevent osteoarthritis, or stop the progression of what has started. The best way of managing arthritis pain, is to prevent it in the first place. This is done by having a thorough Chiropractic evaluation of your nervous system, spine, posture, and movement. These evaluations are crucial for teens, adults, and seniors. The evaluation should include spinal x-rays, so you can see first hand what the status of your alignment and joint function is. This evaluation will help you make decisions on how to best support your spinal joints and nervous system in a proactive manner, not just react to when you have significant pain, dysfunction, and joint deterioration.
Chiropractic adjustments provided by Bozeman, Montana‘s go to family Chiropractor, Dr. Kimberly Maxwell helps you manage arthritis pain naturally. Adjustments help relieve pain, and restore range of motion to the affected areas. Clinical trials comparing moist heat alone verses chiropractic adjustments. The group who received adjustments over several weeks experienced faster and more pronounced pain reduction as well as improvements in range of motion and ease in daily living. (J Manipulative Therapy 2006; 29: 107-14).
Other lifestyle changes important for those with arthritis include regular exercise to maintain strength and flexibility. Quality nutrition that minimizes obesity and inflammation. Taking omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamin D and C supplements helps you heal from the inside. Additionally you can include glucosamine sulfate, avocados, green tea, ginger, and turmeric in your diet which can help ease arthritis discomfort. Lastly hot and cold therapy can help support quality circulation, which can help you manage arthritis pain.
If you have arthritis, or don’t know the status of your joint health, call Dr. Kimberly Maxwell to set up an initial evaluation. When it comes to arthritis, and ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!