LHC Clinic 49

Arthritis Overview

Arthritis is a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased mobility. There are over 100 types of arthritis, but the most common forms include:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): Caused by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to bone friction in the joints. It’s often related to ageing, wear and tear, or joint injury.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the joints, causing chronic inflammation and joint damage.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: Associated with psoriasis, this type also involves joint inflammation.
  • Gout: Caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, often in the big toe.

Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, and symptoms may include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Chronic arthritis can lead to joint deformity and loss of function over time.

Chiropractic Care for Arthritis

Chiropractic treatment for arthritis focuses on improving joint function, reducing pain, and enhancing mobility without invasive procedures or medications. Chiropractors use several methods:

  • Gentle Joint Adjustments: Realigning the spine or affected joints can improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, and alleviate pressure on the nerves. In osteoarthritis, this can help maintain better joint function.
  • Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques like massage, trigger point therapy, or myofascial release can reduce muscle tension around the affected joints, enhancing flexibility and easing pain.
  • Posture and Mobility Exercises: Chiropractors may recommend exercises and postural corrections to support the joints, reduce stress on affected areas, and slow down the progression of arthritis.

Chiropractic care helps manage arthritis by improving joint alignment and mobility, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pain.

Physiotherapy for Arthritis

Physiotherapy is a key part of arthritis management, aiming to strengthen muscles around the joints, improve mobility, and reduce pain. Physiotherapists use several techniques:

  • Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises to build strength in the muscles surrounding affected joints, which helps to support and protect the joints.
  • Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle movements designed to improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and maintain joint function, which is especially important in preventing further loss of mobility in arthritis patients.
  • Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as joint mobilisation or massage, to improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and enhance joint function.
  • Pain Relief Modalities: Therapies like heat, cold packs, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation (TENS) can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in arthritic joints.

Physiotherapy helps in the long-term management of arthritis by improving joint function, relieving pain, and slowing the progression of joint degeneration through regular exercise and therapy.

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Combined Approach

A combined approach of chiropractic care and physiotherapy can be highly effective in managing arthritis. Chiropractic care focuses on realigning joints and easing pressure, while physiotherapy strengthens the muscles, improves flexibility, and promotes long-term joint health. Together, they offer a comprehensive strategy for reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing the quality of life for people with arthritis.

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