How Chiropractic Care Can Treat Osteoarthritis

According to statistics, about 24 million adults in the United States are limited in their daily activities due to arthritis. Add to that, more than one out of four adults living with arthritis suffer from severe joint pain.

If you're living a physically dormant life due to arthritis, you've likely considered seeking chiropractic care. It's one of the most beneficial treatments for pain, poor flexibility, tension, and tortured joints. Unlike medications, chiropractic care doesn't use drugs. Instead, it improves your body's health and wellbeing. As a result, it relieves the symptoms of arthritis. Some of the most common ailments caused by arthritis include inflammation, joint pain, and swelling.

 

What to Expect From a Chiropractor

Chiropractic care leverages the intimate relationship between the spine and the nervous system. It seeks to reduce pain and improve your overall wellbeing. The theory behind this treatment is that your body can heal itself if the bones in your spine are correctly aligned.

Chiropractors use their hands or a special instrument to correct spinal misalignments. The aim is to nourish the nervous system and reduce inflammation of the affected joint.

 

Chiropractic Care in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. It occurs when the cartilage that protects the end of the bone wears out over time. Although it can happen on any joint, the disorder mostly affects joints in the spine, hips, hands, and knees.

Chiropractic treatment helps relieve arthritis-inflicted pain. Every patient might need a different type of care. However, the main point of focus is on the realignment of the body parts that have been affected by the disease.

There is a wide range of techniques used to treat osteoarthritis. It all depends on the severity of the case. Some patients might feel better after a few sessions of traditional chiropractic care. But others with more severe cases may need advanced techniques to make the pain and swelling go away.

Below are some of the main types of chiropractic treatments used:

• Dry Needling: This technique reduces pain in the affected joint. The chiropractor places acupuncture needles into the muscle to stimulate myofascial trigger points. It may cause slight pain and tingling sensations. When the needles are in place, they are linked to an electrical stimulation unit for 10-20 minutes to facilitate healing. Some of the side effects include aching, bruising, minimal bleeding, and soreness.
• Ultrasound Therapy: It uses vibrations to induce heat and energy around the affected joints and muscles. As the sound waves penetrate deeper into the tissues, the cell membranes create a therapeutic response. This reduces pain and tension.
• Chiropractic Adjustments: It uses controlled force to realign the position of your bones and joints. It's quite helpful in improving mobility and reducing pain in the affected area. However, not everyone responds to this kind of treatment. If your symptoms don't improve after several sessions, it might not be the best option.

Chiropractor in Salem, Oregon

We aim to treat individuals and families with high-quality wellness and pain management services at the Spine Clinic. Our staff is well-trained and committed to delivering the best chiropractic care. Book an appointment at our Salem, Oregon, office today to get customized treatment for all your spinal health concerns by calling 503-362-5555.