When most people think of arthritis, they imagine an elderly person with problems in the knees, back, or hands. But did you know arthritis can affect any joint in the body and people of all ages? Although arthritis is especially common in older adults, certain types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can afflict middle-aged adults, and ankylosing spondylitis can start in your early twenties.
There are over 100 types of arthritis which can affect any joint in the body including the knees, hips, wrists, fingers, shoulders, facet joints in the spine, and more. The term “arthritis” refers to a set of inflammatory conditions which cause pain and inflammation in or around joints. The top four most common types of arthritis are:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- osteoarthritis
- psoriatic arthritis
- ankylosing spondylitis
- gout
- lupus
At All Broward Chiropractic, our chiropractors specialize in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in South Florida.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent type of arthritis. It is a common source of back pain , neck pain, hip pain, and knee pain in older adults. As we age, the normal wear and tear we put on our bodies can lead to cartilage destruction. Cartilage is a firm, flexible tissue attached to the bones which acts as a natural cushion between the joints. When this cartilage begins to break down, the bones can start to rub one another, leading to decreased mobility and pain.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system is attacking itself. In the case of patients with RA, the immune system attacks the synovial membrane inside the joint. The synovial membrane is the soft tissue lining in every joint that secretes fluid for lubricating the joints. Early stages of RA causes inflammation and swelling around the joint, but over time this process will lead to the destruction of cartilage and bone within the joint.
How Can OUR DOCTORS Help with Arthritis?
While there are no cures for arthritis, there are treatments, like chiropractic care , which can reduce pain and slow the progression of joint degeneration. Studies have demonstrated that chiropractic care can effectively ease symptoms for patients with arthritis in the neck, lower back , knees, hips, and hands.
Patients with arthritis often suffer from fixated joint causing limited mobility and pain. Gentle chiropractic adjustments applied to these immobile joints can increase range of motion and ease pressure on any irritated nerves. Exercise rehabilitation can also assist in building mobility by strengthening and stretching weakened ligaments. Acupuncture can promote blood flow to the affected area to reduce pain. Additionally, certain supplements and dietary changes can be made to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Our Doctors of Chiropractic combine chiropractic care, exercise, and nutritional counseling for a comprehensive approach to managing arthritic pain. We’ll happily coordinate with any of your existing healthcare providers and offer referrals for specialists in South Florida when necessary.
For relief from arthritic pain in at All Broward Chiropractic, call 954-443-2420.