Arthritis is one of the most pervasive conditions found throughout the world today. This dreadful disorder causes untold amounts of suffering and many people are searching for any viable solution for their arthritic pain.
Some people believe that arthritis is inevitable. These individuals firmly stand by the fact that everyone, everywhere, will someday develop arthritis. But is arthritis truly unavoidable? Even if it is, does it have to be so debilitating and painful that people are resigned to sitting most of the day and avoiding all activities? In this article, we will investigate whether chiropractic care is an appropriate choice for those with joint pain and arthritis.
Common Painful Joint-Related Issues
Arthritis and joint pain can develop anywhere in the body. The joints of the spine, upper extremities, and lower extremities may all be affected by arthritic processes. However, the following are some of the most commonly affected joints in most individuals.
Shoulder Pain
The shoulder and rotator cuff are some of the most important functional structures in the body. Interestingly, the shoulder, being a ball and socket joint of the upper extremity, is the most mobile of all joints in our bodies.
However, this incredible level of mobility can sometimes lead to degeneration within the shoulder. Over time, the shoulder can wear down and the muscles/tendons/ligaments surrounding it may become damaged or frayed.
Knee Pain
As bipedal creatures, it is incredibly important for us to be able to walk. But when we have painful knees, hips, or ankles, walking can be unbearable.
The knee is a fairly simple joint, when compared to some of the other joints of the body. That being said, if and when the knee starts to wear down or develops pain, bearing weight and moving the knee at all are monumental tasks.
Hand Pain
We use our hands with pretty much every task we complete throughout the day. As a result, our fingers and wrists can sometimes become worn down and painful.
In other cases, hands may become deformed and painful due to a specific autoimmune condition known as rheumatoid arthritis. This condition is distinct from the more “classic” form of arthritis, known as osteoarthritis. Autoimmune conditions can be very difficult to deal with on a day-to-day basis, especially those that affect the joints.
Hip Pain
The hip, much like the shoulder, is a ball and socket joint. While the hips may not afford us as much range of motion as the shoulders do, these joints also play an integral role in our health and mobility.
Hip replacements are very common in the older population. These surgeries seem like the only option for incredibly painful hips. But some people may wonder, “isn’t there an alternative to surgery for my painful joint?”
Let’s take a look at how chiropractic care can help individuals with painful joint conditions.
Chiropractic Care and Joint Pain
In general, chiropractic care is concerned with correcting any spinal misalignments that may be present. Chiropractors often accomplish this feat through the use of joint manipulations. By performing these treatments, these clinicians restore connections between painful joints and the central nervous system. When they do so, healing of these areas can take place.
With better communication between the nervous system and painful joints, patients often experience improved quality of life, better mobility, and overall less pain.
Are you suffering from joint pain? Are you considering joint replacement surgery? If this sounds like you, come see us at Awaken Chiropractic. We are the premier Parker chiropractor and you’ll see why once you start working with us! Set up your first appointment with us today.
