Chiropractor Moore Park

Arthritis is a common but often misunderstood condition that causes inflammation in one or more joints, leading to pain and restricted mobility. As Moore Park’s Chiropractor, Dr. Steven Lockstone, uses a holistic approach to manage arthritis and its debilitating symptoms, providing patients with a renewed sense of mobility and relief from chronic pain. This comprehensive guide will delve into the complexities of arthritis and the benefits of chiropractic care in its management.

1. What is Arthritis?

Arthritis, an umbrella term for over 100 types of joint disorders, is the leading cause of disability in America, affecting an estimated 50 million individuals. The condition is characterised by symptoms such as swelling, joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, which can progressively worsen with age. The two primary types of arthritis include:

1.1 Osteoarthritis (OA)

OA is a degenerative disorder that primarily affects the flexible joint cartilage. With age, the cartilage cushioning the joints wears down, leading to bone-on-bone friction, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. It most commonly affects the knees, spine, hips, and fingers, especially in people over the age of 60.

1.2 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

RA is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the joints. It is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, reducing joint fluid and tissue, leading to friction, swelling, and severe pain.

2. Arthritis and Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care offers a natural, safe, and non-invasive approach to manage arthritis symptoms and alleviate pain. It advocates for self-care combined with non-addictive treatment as the first line of defence against arthritis discomfort.

2.1 Understanding Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care, provided by expert chiropractors like Moore Park’s Chiropractor, involves employing techniques and adjustments to reduce joint restrictions or misalignments in the spine and other joints. This improves the function of both the affected joint and the nervous system, allowing the body to better manage arthritis symptoms.

2.2 Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Arthritis

Chiropractic care offers several health benefits for arthritis patients, including:

• Reduced pain and discomfort
• Decreased inflammation
• Improved range of motion
• Enhanced flexibility
• Increased activity and lifestyle

3. Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care

For osteoarthritis patients, chiropractic care aims to mobilise the joints and alleviate the pressure causing pain. However, it’s essential to note that chiropractic care cannot restore lost cartilage.

3.1 How Chiropractic Care Helps OA Patients

The holistic approach of chiropractors like Moore Park’s Chiropractor focuses on improving the mechanical function of joints and how the spine interacts with the nervous system. Regular chiropractic adjustments can restore nerve communication, allowing the body to function properly, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain and other symptoms.

4. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Chiropractic Care

For those with RA, chiropractic care can be more cautious. Physically manipulating joints that are actively inflamed may worsen the pain and swelling.

4.1 Alternative Chiropractic Treatments for RA

Chiropractors can provide alternative pain relief treatments during an RA flare-up. These may include:

• Ultrasound Therapy: This technique uses sound waves to provide a massaging effect, reducing swelling and pain.
• Infrared Sauna: Controlled amounts of heat are used to relieve pain and increase circulation.
• Electrotherapy: This involves delivering tiny electric shocks to tissues to stimulate nerves and muscles.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy: This technique uses a non-heat-producing laser to penetrate deep into the tissue, potentially reducing inflammation.

5. Chiropractic Care and Joint Health

Chiropractic care isn’t limited to treating spinal issues. Chiropractors can use their techniques to alleviate pain or stiffness in other areas, including hands, wrists, feet, ankles, head, jaw, shoulders, neck, hips, pelvis, and knees.

6. Safety of Chiropractic Care for Arthritis Patients

Generally, chiropractic care is considered a safer treatment option for arthritis than medications or invasive surgeries. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution when treating inflammatory conditions like RA.

Chiropractic care should not be used on joints with active swelling. A professional chiropractor needs to assess the body’s condition to determine the best treatment option.

7. Initial Consultation and Treatment Plan

During the initial visit, the chiropractor performs various tests, takes X-rays, and asks for a detailed medical history. This information helps them suggest appropriate chiropractic adjustments best suited to the specific condition.

8. Can Chiropractic Care Cure Arthritis?

While chiropractic care can significantly alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and slow down its progression, it’s essential to note that it can’t cure the condition. However, regular chiropractic adjustments can improve your overall health and wellness, making it an integral part of arthritis management.

9. When to Seek Chiropractic Care for Arthritis

If you’re experiencing arthritis symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a chiropractor to discuss your symptoms and learn how chiropractic care can help reduce your pain and discomfort.

10. Final Thoughts

Living with arthritis can be challenging, but with the help of chiropractic care, you can manage your symptoms and lead a more comfortable and active life. As an experienced chiropractor, Dr. Steven Lockstone’s holistic approach addresses joint pain at its source, offering patients a renewed sense of mobility and relief from chronic pain. So, don’t let arthritis affect your life any longer. Embrace the benefits of chiropractic care today.

Remember, it’s crucial to discuss your symptoms with a professional chiropractor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. If you’re considering chiropractic care for your arthritis, get in touch with Moore Park’s Chiropractor, Dr. Steven Lockstone, today!