Why You Should See a Chiropractor for Your Arthritis
When most people think of chiropractors, they think of people who help those with back pain. And while much focus is given to spinal adjustments and relief from back pain, the truth is chiropractors are primary-care professionals who take a holistic approach to health. This means they evaluate and treat the whole body to bring about balance, harmony, and well-being.
Though chiropractic care has gained in popularity over the past decade, there is still much confusion as to what exactly chiropractors do and how they may help someone with arthritis.
Despite the common belief that all chiropractors do is crack backs and pop necks back into place, these professionals typically use over 150 techniques, many of them very gentle, to manually adjust the spine and joints and bring about relief.
Is Chiropractic Right for All Kinds of Arthritis?
Chiropractic is a very safe treatment for joint pain due to osteoarthritis. Where you need to be more careful and cautious is in treating inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis , or ankylosing spondylitis.
Joints with active swelling should not be adjusted. But chiropractors can use other highly effective and gentle treatments such as:
1. Ultrasound
Ultrasound is not only for imaging, but it can also reduce swelling and decrease pain and stiffness when applied to soft tissue and joints.
2. Electrotherapy
Tiny electric pulses treat soft tissue injuries by stimulating muscles and nerves.
3. Cold Laser
A non-heat-producing laser penetrates deep tissue reducing pain and inflammation.
4. Infrared Sauna
Just the right amount of heat is used to increase circulation and loosen stiff joints.
Finding the Right Chiropractor
Look for a healthcare provider that has completed four years of chiropractic college, sometimes followed by a one-year internship. Equally important is to find someone you are comfortable with. This is a partnership to help you get your body working and feeling good.
Look for someone whose practice best aligns with your goals and who uses a variety of techniques. And if they promise they can cure you of your arthritis for good, walk away. While chiropractic has repeatedly shown its ability to bring relief from the pain and discomfort of arthritis, it is not a cure for the disease itself.
If you’d like to explore treatment options, get in touch with us. We’d be happy to schedule a free evaluation and speak to you about a personalized treatment plan.
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