Arthritis is a very common medical condition in the United Kingdom, affecting about 10 million people. It is a potentially debilitating condition that causes swelling and pain in the joints. Arthritis sufferers often struggle with mobility and find that the condition severely impacts their lifestyle.
Our Newcastle under Lyme and Stoke chiropractic clinics often receive new patients who are suffering from arthritis. They are usually in a great deal of pain and wondering if a chiropractor in Stoke on Trent can help them obtain some pain relief.
We are happy to inform these clients that chiropractic can reduce the symptoms of many types of arthritis. In most cases, obtaining treatment from a Stoke chiro will significantly reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and restore some mobility. In this post, our Stoke chiropractor explains precisely how chiropractic care can help arthritis sufferers.
What is Arthritis?
Although arthritis is a common condition, it is not well understood by the general public. “Arthritis” is not a single disease, but a term used to describe many different joint diseases and conditions that cause joint pain.
In total, there are over 100 types of arthritis and associated conditions. These conditions can affect people of any race, age, and gender. The most common arthritic conditions include:
Osteoarthritis
Affecting about 9 million people across the UK, this is by far the most common type of arthritis. It usually occurs in older adults and is more prevalent in people with a family history of the condition.
Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage lining the joints to roughen and become thinner. This makes the tendons and ligaments in joints work harder. It then leads to swelling and the formation of bony spurs in the joints.
Eventually, the bones in the joints begin to rub against one another, which is extremely painful. The joints most commonly affected by osteoporosis arthritis are in the hands, spine, knees and hips.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
This is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly targets the joints. This leads to pain and swelling. Eventually, it causes the bone and cartilage in the joints to break down.
Ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory condition that primarily affects the muscles, bones, and ligaments in the spine. It leads to stiffness and causes the joints to eventually fuse together.
Cervical spondylosis
This form of arthritis primarily affects the joints and bones in the neck. It causes a great deal of stiffness and pain.
What Can Chiropractors Do To Help Arthritis Sufferers?
Chiropractic is effective at treating many types of arthritis. It is an all-natural, safe, and non-invasive treatment that does not involve any pharmaceuticals.
Arthritic patients who visit our Newcastle under Lyme and Stoke chiropractic clinics receive gentle adjustments to their joints which correct misalignments and reduce joint restrictions. These adjustments can reduce joint inflammation while improving the function of the affected joint.
Chiropractic adjustments can also boost nervous system function, which makes it easier to manage the symptoms of both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Visiting a chiropractor in Stoke on Trent and Newcastle under Lyme can lead to:
- Reduced pain levels
- Less inflammation around the joints
- Better flexibility and improved range of motion
- A more active and enjoyable lifestyle
To establish if chiropractic care is appropriate for a new patient, we perform a consultation and initial examination. This helps us discover the severity of the patient’s arthritis and determine if chiropractic treatments will be appropriate. We then work with the patient to devise a treatment plan that delivers results.
If you are suffering with arthritis and are looking for help with your symptoms or would like learn more about the ways that our Stoke Chiro can help you, contact Newcastle Chiropractic Clinic by calling 01782 711 191 or City Chiropractic Clinic in Stoke by calling 01782 711 191