Arthritis is simply inflammation of the joints. The inflammation in the joints has heat, redness, swelling, stiffness and pain. In some people, there may be an absence of any symptoms or occasional pain and stiffness. However, there are those that suffer from permanent pain and disabling joint damage.
There are a few types of arthritis and Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types. It is also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD) and usually starts later in life. Due to this fact, it is believed that it is caused by wear and tear over the years. Up to 80% of people over the age of 50 suffer from DJD and some show symptoms while others do not. The most common areas where it is found are the weight bearing and high use joints like the foot, knees, hips, spine and hands.
DJD in the spine can cause neck and back pain and this can be made worse when the spinal bones are out of alignment. In addition, spurring is often seen on the x-rays of joints with osteoarthritis, which is extra calcium deposits and the body’s way of trying to defend itself by making the bone stronger. However, this only leads to joints becoming painful and swollen as well as causing nerve irritation (pinched nerve).
There are a number of benefits of using chiropractic as a form of treatment. When bones move out of their normal position, they irritate the muscles and nerves around the joint. To fix this, your chiropractor uses manipulation or adjustments to unlock the bone from the wrong position and return it to its proper position. This relieves joint pressure as well as muscle and nerve irritation. Chiropractic is one of the most effective treatment methods for people suffering from Osteoarthritis as it leads to a reduction in joint stiffness, swelling and pain.
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