Your San Jose Chiropractor knows that the more you know about arthritis, the better decisions you’ll make concerning the care and management of your arthritis:

One of the most frequently misunderstood conditions among sufferers is arthritis. Often the word, “arthritis,” brings to mind a future that includes crippled and twisted joints.  However “arthritis” is an all-inclusive word that comprises many different conditions from the benign to the severe. For our purposes we will confine this discussion to the most common forms of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care

Osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, or degenerative joint disease (DJD) are the terms for the most common form of arthritis, which is also called, spondylosis, if it occurs in the spine. This form of arthritis is not limited to humans, but occurs in all mammals, and is due to the degradation of the cartilage that protects the joint surfaces. Degenerative changes in the joint happens when joint cartilage is harmed and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is ordinarily preserved by the cartilage. Sometimes the bone around the joint will proliferate and make osteophytes, or what are familiarly called bone spurs. These spurs can produce painful irritation to other tissues adjacent to the joint, in this way complicating the already hurtful condition.

Degenerative joints most often occur in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, hips, and fingers. Everyone may experience DJD at one point in their lives, though previous trauma, ones occupation, activities, weight, diet, and heredity influence the degree of the condition and its onset.

Pain and/or stiffness in the affected joints are primary indicators of DJD. As the condition advances there can be loss of mobility, notably when weight-bearing joints such as hips or knees are affected.  In some cases, if the joint is sufficiently worn and the person can no longer walk without severe pain, the joints are surgically replaced with synthetic devices. Of course, one should try to manage the condition early on in ones life to avoid the need for surgery.

Prevention is unquestionably the best option, beginning at an early age.

• Making sure that all injuries to joints are properly treated will help to avoid future problems.
• Shoes with good support and shock absorption should be worn by those whose jobs necessitate extended periods of standing or walking.
• Excess body weight can produce increased stress upon the weight bearing joints of the body.

• Care should be taken to guard knees from strain and pain when kneeling on hard surfaces.

• Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables as they contain natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for the health of the joints, as well as the rest of the body.

Recently there have been some studies that offer proof that the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can help with DJD and might help rebuild joint cartilage. However, it must be used over an extended period and does not work in all conditions.

Chiropractic adjustments are not only sound, but an effectual treatment for arthritis, and can aid in the restoration of proper mobility and function to the spinal joints, thereby giving patients great relief. Your San Jose chiropractor has many of years of expertise in helping people with arthritis pain. In addition, chiropractic modalities such as joint mobilization, ultrasound, cold laser therapy, massage and electro-therapy may be used to aid in the treatment of painful and stiff joints. Occasionally, a brace is used to support the joint and relieve pain. A chiropractor may suggest exercises such as stretching, yoga, tai chi and other gentle mobilizing activities to help maintain arthritic joints.

Gout

Gouty arthritis is produced by high levels of uric acid in the blood and the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. The most common joints are the big toes, the knees, ankles and wrists, and is often characterized by severe pain and swelling. Most people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are more often than not brought on by binge eating of inflammatory foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Particular foods such as red meat (especially organ meat), certain seafood, legumes, and mushrooms include the natural substance, Purines, that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. Since individuals with gout cannot properly metabolize uric acid, the buildup in the bloodstream creates joint problems. In addition to the foods mentioned and additional foods containing Purines, other dietary restrictions must be followed including the avoidance of alcohol.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of systemic origin. The principal cause is not known, but it is thought to be due to a problem with the immune system. The most common joints affected are the small joints of the hands and fingers, the feet, knees, and shoulder, although other areas of the body can be affected as well. Morning stiffness made more painful by movement is most often associated with the disease. Additional symptoms can involve general malaise and fatigue, and in its more advanced stages other systems of the body may be affected. Rheumatoid arthritis can be easily identified through definitive blood tests. Management includes medication and vitamin and diet therapy, as well as chiropractic manipulations. In addition, joint mobilization and modalities such as ultrasound, heat, electro-therapy and massage can help with the pain and stiffness associated the condition. Your San Jose chiropractor is dedicated to helping people in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis.

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