What Exactly is Arthritis?
Arthritis or Osteoarthritis, also now as degenerative disc or joint disease (DDD or DJD), is the breaking down or degeneration of the different joints in the body. It is commonly seen in the joints of the cervical (neck) and lumbar (low back) spine as well as hips, knees, and shoulders. As these joints break down the space needed for the two bones to move and function properly decreases, eventually leading to pain, inflammation, decreased range of motion, and much more. In the picture below you can see the difference between a healthy spine and an arthritic spine.
What Causes Arthritis?
Arthritis can be caused from a variety of different things, but it all boils down to the lack of normal function within the affected joint. Joints were designed to move and move in a certain way. When movement patterns are interrupted, changed, or stopped completely, the joint begins to fail and this is what is known as arthritis. So you may ask, how does a joint start to not function properly? Many things can cause this from poor posture, traumatic injuries such as a auto accident or work injury, poor lifestyle choices, sedentary lifestyle, repetitive stress injuries, and the list goes on and on.
How Can We Stop/Prevent Arthritis Through Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care can help stop the progression and even prevent arthritis from occurring. As chiropractors, we restore the body’s normal function through adjustments and the different exercises we go over. Our ability to improve joint function and range of motion can prevent the progression of arthritis. The joints, in order to receive the nutrients needed to stay healthy, must move properly Far too often I hear about patients who have been recommended steroid medications and surgeries to repair “arthritis”. This only leads to more complications. Steroid medications can lead to weight can, osteoporosis, and an increased risk in bone fracture.
So What Should I Do?
Before you jump to the medications to help mask the symptoms of arthritis, make sure you try all of your natural options. In the long run, chiropractic care will keep you healthy and functioning at a high level for a long time, while the medications will cause you to continue down your current path, masking your symptoms until things are too bad and surgery, usually spinal fusion, is your only option. When it gets to that point, there is nothing we as chiropractors can do for you.
If you or someone you know suffers from arthritic pain, have them give us a call (509) 928-3164. We can help you get your life back and enjoy activities pain free! We are located in the Spokane Valley, 502 S Sullivan Rd Ste 106.
Stay Healthy
Dr. Siler