Living with arthritis often feels like a constant battle against joint pain, stiffness, and restricted mobility. Whether it is a dull ache that greets you every morning or a sharp pain that limits your favorite activities, arthritis affects millions of adults and can significantly diminish quality of life. At Chiropractic of Bellevue, Dr. Edward Owens leverages nearly 30 years of clinical experience to help patients manage these symptoms through non-invasive, drug-free care.
By understanding the specific mechanics of your condition and utilizing advanced technology, chiropractic care offers a path toward improved function and lasting relief.
Understanding the Two Main Types of Arthritis
To provide effective care, it is essential to distinguish between the two most common forms of arthritis, as their causes and treatment protocols differ significantly.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Often called "wear-and-tear" arthritis, osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time. This is primarily a mechanical issue driven by friction and joint misalignment. According to the Arthritis Foundation, chiropractors can be highly effective for OA by evaluating the whole body to ensure joints are moving correctly. By adjusting misaligned joints, Dr. Owens can reduce compensatory movement patterns and alleviate the uneven stress placed on degenerating cartilage.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the joint lining, leading to systemic inflammation. Because RA involves active inflammation, high-velocity adjustments on affected joints are generally contraindicated. Instead, chiropractic care for RA focuses on gentle modalities and addressing secondary mechanical pains that arise as patients alter their movements to protect sore joints.
Specialized Chiropractic Techniques for Arthritis Relief
Dr. Owens utilizes a thorough approach that moves beyond standard manual manipulation. At Chiropractic of Bellevue, we employ over 150 different techniques, including specialized instruments that provide precise care without the need for heavy force.
Precision Adjustments
For arthritis patients, gentle mobilization is key. Dr. Owens often uses specialized instruments like the Impulse IQ and ArthroStim. These tools deliver controlled, low-force impulses to the joints, restoring range of motion without the "cracking" sounds often associated with manual adjustments. This is particularly beneficial for those with significant joint degradation or sensitivity.
Red Light (Laser) Therapy
One of our most effective tools for arthritis is Red Light (Laser) Therapy. This non-invasive service uses infrared and red light to penetrate deep into the tissues, stimulating circulation and cellular metabolism. Clinical research suggests that Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) can increase cellular energy production, which accelerates tissue repair and reduces inflammatory markers. For arthritis sufferers, this means a faster reduction in inflammation and pain.
Myofascial Release
Arthritis rarely affects just the bone; the surrounding muscles and fascia often become tight and painful as they work to stabilize a damaged joint. Dr. Owens provides myofascial release therapy using VibraCussor-assisted massage and manual trigger point release. Breaking down scar tissue and relieving muscle tension can significantly improve joint mobility and comfort levels.
The Benefits of a Holistic Approach
Choosing chiropractic care for arthritis management offers several distinct advantages:
- Pain Reduction: A 2013 study found that patients with osteoarthritis who received chiropractic care experienced more significant relief from joint pain than those using stretching or physical therapy alone.
- Improved Mobility: Restoring proper biomechanics allows you to move more freely, halting the cycle of inactivity that often causes arthritic joints to stiffen further.
- Reduced Dependency on Medication: Chiropractic care provides a viable, non-pharmacological alternative for those looking to manage pain without heavy reliance on over-the-counter or prescription drugs.
Safety and Professional Care in Bellevue
While chiropractic care is generally safe, certain conditions require an experienced hand. The Mayo Clinic notes that spinal manipulation should be avoided by individuals with severe osteoporosis or active inflammatory flare-ups. Dr. Owens’ 30 years of experience ensures that every patient undergoes a thorough evaluation to determine the safest and most effective course of treatment.
At Chiropractic of Bellevue, we prioritize your comfort and long-term wellness. We offer same-day treatments for most first visits, and Dr. Owens does not require long-term treatment plans to start care. Whether you are looking for immediate pain relief or a monthly maintenance schedule to prevent relapses, the choice is always yours.
Find Relief Today
If arthritis is keeping you from the activities you love, it may be time to see how chiropractic care can help. Dr. Edward Owens and the team at Chiropractic of Bellevue are here to provide the thorough, experienced, and friendly care you deserve.
We are conveniently located at 365 118th Ave SE Ste 110, Bellevue, WA 98005. We are in-network with most major providers, including Medicare, Premera, United Healthcare, and Regence.
To schedule an appointment, call or text us today at (425) 802-5432 or email ca4owens@gmail.com. Let us help you move toward a more active, pain-free life.
Sources
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/physical-therapies/physical-therapy-and-assistive-devices
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/physical-therapies/chiropractic-care-for-arthritis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/chiropractic-adjustment/about/pac-20393513
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/what-is-chiropractic-health
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chiropractor-rheumatoid-arthritis
https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/chiropractic-care-for-joint-problems
https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/chiropractor-rheumatoid-arthritis
https://southeastchiro.com/managing-arthritis-symptoms-with-chiropractic-therapy/
https://glenwoodchiro.com/cold-laser-therapy-demystified-a-light-based-healing-revolution/
