Chiropractic Care for Arthritis

Written on behalf of Scott P. DeRouen, Chiropractor in Lake Charles LA.

Arthritis can be a debilitating condition, causing pain, stiffness, and a reduction in mobility. If you suffer from arthritis, particularly in the back, neck, or joints, you may have wondered whether chiropractic care could offer relief. Chiropractic care is widely known for its ability to treat musculoskeletal pain, including neck and back pain, but it can also be an effective therapy for certain types of arthritis. Here, we’ll explore when chiropractic care is safe for arthritis, how it works, and what you can expect during your visit.

What is Chiropractic Care?

​Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Chiropractors manipulate the spine and joints using different techniques to improve alignment, function, and relieve pain. The goal is to restore optimal movement in the joints and improve overall body function.
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Though spinal adjustments are the cornerstone of chiropractic care, chiropractors also use techniques like soft tissue manipulation, ultrasound therapy, and low-level laser treatments. Chiropractors believe that improving the alignment of the spine and joints can enhance the nervous system’s function and promote healing.

Chiropractic Care for Arthritis:

​What to expect if you’re considering chiropractic care for arthritis-related pain, here’s what you can expect from a typical session:

• Initial Evaluation: Your chiropractor will start by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical exam. The doctor will examine your joints, assess your range of motion, and may request X-rays to determine the best course of treatment for you.
• Tailored Treatments: Chiropractors employ a variety of techniques tailored to your needs. For arthritis, treatments may involve gentle adjustments to relieve pressure on joints and surrounding muscles. Your chiropractor may also recommend exercises to improve strength and flexibility, or use traction techniques to stretch your joints and improve their range of motion.
• Non-Invasive Methods: Chiropractors often incorporate alternative therapies such as ultrasound therapy, that uses sound waves to reduce pain and stiffness, or electrotherapy, which stimulates nerves and muscles to relieve discomfort. In cases of severe inflammation, a chiropractor may also recommend infrared sauna treatments to increase circulation and relieve joint pain.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Arthritis?

​Chiropractic care is generally considered safe for arthritis, especially if you have osteoarthritis (OA), a common form of arthritis that affects the joints due to wear and tear. For those with osteoarthritis, chiropractic care has proven to be an effective way to manage pain, improve mobility, and prevent further joint damage. Studies have shown that chiropractic treatments, such as spinal manipulation, can significantly reduce pain and increase mobility for people with OA, particularly in the back and hip joints.

However, chiropractic care may not be appropriate for every patient with arthritis. If you suffer from an inflammatory type of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis, you should approach chiropractic care with caution. Chiropractic adjustments are not recommended if you have active inflammation, a fused spine, or osteoporosis in the spine or neck. In these cases, manipulating the joints could aggravate the inflammation or cause injury.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Arthritis

​Chiropractic care can provide significant relief from arthritis symptoms, especially when combined with other treatments. Here are some of the potential benefits:

• Pain Relief: Chiropractic adjustments can reduce pain caused by arthritis by improving joint function and reducing pressure on nerves. This can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from back and neck pain due to arthritis.
• Improved Mobility: Regular chiropractic care may help improve range of motion and flexibility in affected joints. For instance, stretching techniques can help ease stiffness in the hips, knees, and spine.
• Non-Medication Approach: Chiropractic care offers an alternative to medications that can have side effects. For individuals seeking natural pain relief, chiropractic adjustments and complementary therapies can help manage arthritis pain without relying on prescription drugs.

Adjunctive Therapies Chiropractors Use for Arthritis

Chiropractors often combine spinal manipulation with other therapies to address joint pain more comprehensively. Some of these therapies include:

• Ultrasound Therapy: This technique uses sound waves to reduce swelling and pain in the soft tissues around the joints. It helps promote healing and can ease stiffness.
• Electrotherapy: Electrotherapy uses small electrical pulses to stimulate muscles and nerves, which can reduce pain and promote muscle relaxation.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (Cold Laser): Cold laser therapy uses light to reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue healing. It is often used to treat soft tissue injuries and joint pain.
• Infrared Sauna: Infrared heat is used to increase circulation and relax muscles. It can be particularly helpful in managing pain in stiff, arthritic joints.

These therapies can be used to complement traditional chiropractic adjustments, allowing for a more holistic approach to managing arthritis.

When to Consider Chiropractic Care for Arthritis

Chiropractic care can be an excellent option for managing arthritis pain, but it’s important to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider before seeking treatment. If you’re experiencing joint pain or stiffness that affects your daily activities, chiropractic care may be a safe, effective solution. However, if you have an active arthritis flare-up, it’s best to wait until the inflammation subsides before seeking chiropractic treatment.

It’s also crucial to work with a chiropractor who is experienced in treating arthritis patients. They should take your medical history into account and tailor the treatment to your specific needs. If chiropractic care doesn’t provide relief within a few treatments, or if you experience any discomfort, it may be necessary to explore other treatment options.

​Final Thoughts

Chiropractic care can be a valuable tool in managing arthritis symptoms, especially for those dealing with osteoarthritis. By improving joint function and reducing pain, chiropractic treatments can enhance quality of life and prevent further joint damage. However, it’s important to approach chiropractic care with caution if you have inflammatory types of arthritis or active flare-ups. Always consult with a qualified chiropractor and your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

This blog provides insights into how chiropractic care can benefit individuals with arthritis. By carefully considering your condition and working with a qualified chiropractor, you can experience relief from joint pain and stiffness.

TAGS & Related Pages:

When to Consider Chiropractic Care for Arthritis

The American Chiropractic Association (ACA)
National Institutes of Health 
The Arthritis Foundation Arthritis Resource Finder
Chiropractic Care