Chiropractic Treatment For Hip And Knee Pain And Arthritis
Arthritis literally means inflammation of a joint. It is typically used to describe joint pain. There are many different types of arthritis, the most common types that a chiropractor may see are Osteoarthritis (in the spine it may be termed Spondylosis); and Rheumatoid Arthritis. A less common type of arthritis is Ankylosing Spondylitis, we are limited in what we can do to help this, although some patients do report relief of symptoms with chiropractic treatment. If you are suffering with aches and pains then call us to book an appointment now.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
Joint pains- knee and hip pain
Osteoarthritis (OA) is part of the degenerative process that most people experience as they age. It is better known as ‘wear and tear’. It commonly occurs in joints that have been injured, or endured more repetitive stress, such as manual jobs or sports. The cartilage covering the joint wears away and becomes roughened. The tendons and ligaments supporting the joint weaken and the joint may become painful and stiff or deform. Degenerative change does not necessarily mean pain, although it does tend to make your joints more susceptible to injury.
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Osteoarthritis often responds very well to treatment. Combining joint mobilisation/ manipulation and soft tissue work we can commonly help improve joint mobility, muscle tone and flexibility. We will usually show you some stretching and strengthening exercises which alongside treatment can help achieve reduction of painful episodes. Many patients with OA find that treatments every month or so keep the pain levels lower and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Contact us to learn more.
Inflammatory Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is caused by inflammation in the lining of the joint. It is an auto-immune disease which may become progressively disabling in some individuals. The joints tend to become reddened, hot, inflamed and painful. The cartilage can erode and the joint surfaces can become damaged or eroded, this may result in joint stiffness, pain and deformity. It commonly affects shoulders, wrists/hands, knees and feet. Some people with RA may feel an overwhelming feeling of tiredness. As it is a systemic disease process RA can affect any part of the body.
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​Suppressing inflammation is one of the important ways of treating it medically. Chiropractors do treat patients who have RA, they may only need to modify their treatment to your current state. Adjustments should not be used on joints affected by RA at a time of severe flare-up. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory form of arthritis that tends to first develop in teens and young adults. Symptoms vary but often involve low back pain/buttock pain and stiffness. It may also cause pain and swelling in other joints of the body or at the site of tendon meeting bone. Sufferers may also have extreme tiredness. Symptoms may be intermittent and develop gradually over months or years. Advanced stages may involve natural fusion of the spine.
Trust our chiropractors
Chiropractors are trained in recognising this type of arthritis and may refer you back to your GP for blood tests to establish whether this is the type that you have. Chiropractic treatment can sometimes be useful in reducing pain in AS patients, although techniques should be modified if you are in a stage of exacerbation. Whilst chiropractic is appropriate for many forms of arthritis, for some it may only give relief from pain. Speak with us today. You may also be referred to your GP or a Rheumatologist for further assessment/treatment.
