Arthritis is a category of conditions characterized by inflammation in one or more joints, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected areas. Any joint in the body can be affected by arthritis, but is most commonly experienced in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. The word ‘arthritis’ derives from the Greek words ‘arthron,’ meaning ‘joint.’
There are dozens of different kinds of arthritis, with various causes and symptoms. The most common forms include osteoarthritis, often dubbed “wear and tear” arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to attack the joints.
Typically, arthritis is a chronic condition, although the intensity and presence of its symptoms can very widely. Chiropractic and medical care can greatly reduce its impact on your quality of life, however.
Arthritis
Symptoms
Joint pain - discomfort that may worsen with activity or remain constant
Stiffness - especially noticeable after periods of rest, like waking up in the morning
Swelling - visible puffiness around joints due to inflammation
Redness or warmth - affected areas may feel hot or appear red
Loss of range of motion - difficulty moving joints as freely as before
Fatigue - generalized tiredness due to chronic inflammation
Common Causes
Arthritis has many different causes depending on the type. In particular, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have very different sources.
Osteoarthritis primarily results from the natural wear and tear of joints over time, particularly as individuals age. Repetitive stress or heavy lifting can exacerbate its development by accelerating joint degradation. Athletes or individuals with physically demanding jobs, for example, may experience increased strain on their joints, leading to earlier onset of osteoarthritis symptoms. Past injuries or traumas can also increase the risk of development later in life.
Rheumatoid arthritis primarily has genetic origins, but may be amplified in susceptible individuals by environmental factors, such as smoking or other infections.
Additionally, arthritis in general can be influenced by lifestyle choices, such as diets high in inflammatory foods (processed sugars, unhealthy fats).
How Arthritis can affect you
If left untreated, arthritis can significantly impact your quality of life. The pain and stiffness in your joints may make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as climbing stairs, gripping objects, or even getting dressed. Over time, joint damage from arthritis can lead to permanent changes in joint structure, further limiting mobility.
Beyond physical challenges, the constant discomfort and limitations can take a toll on your mental health, leading to feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression. Additionally, fatigue caused by chronic inflammation can leave you feeling exhausted, making it harder to stay active and engaged in social activities.
How we treat Arthritis
At Chiropractic of Bellevue, we focus on holistic, non-invasive treatments to help manage arthritis symptoms and improve joint function. Spinal adjustments and joint mobilization techniques are used to restore proper alignment and reduce pressure on affected joints. Soft tissue therapy, such as massage or ultrasound, can help alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation around the joints.
We also incorporate exercises tailored to your specific needs to strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints, providing better support and reducing strain. In some cases, lifestyle modifications like diet changes, weight management, and ergonomic adjustments may be recommended to further reduce joint stress. By combining these approaches, we aim to minimize pain, improve mobility, and help you regain control over your daily activities.