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Arthritis is a term we often hear, but what exactly does it mean? This condition, characterized by inflammation and stiffness in the joints, is more than a single disease. It represents over 100 different types that vary in cause and treatment.
At LiveWell Family Health Centre, we take a holistic approach to managing arthritis, providing non-invasive and natural solutions that aim to enhance your quality of life. Let’s delve into understanding this complex condition and how we can help.
Arthritis is primarily split into two common types: Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
This is the most common form and occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time, leading to bone rubbing on bone – a recipe for pain and stiffness. Risk factors for OA include age, obesity, genetics, and injury to a joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis on the other hand, is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. This attack leads to inflammation that can erode the joint’s components, causing pain, swelling, and potential deformity.
There are numerous other forms of arthritis, such as psoriatic arthritis, gout, and lupus, each with its own set of causes and symptoms. At LiveWell, we approach each patient with a personalized plan designed to address their specific arthritis type and symptomatology.
Contrary to popular belief, chiropractic care is not just for back and neck pain. As chiropractors, we are essentially experts in the musculoskeletal system, which includes your joints. Our goal is to restore joint mobility and relieve pain by reducing inflammation and improving spinal function.
Chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pressure on your joints and enhance alignment, which can significantly reduce the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. Moreover, we can provide you with tailored advice on posture, exercise, and lifestyle habits to support your joint health.
Naturopathy offers a natural approach to arthritis management, focusing on promoting the body’s self-healing process. As naturopaths, we focus on the root causes of arthritis, developing an individualized treatment plan that includes dietary changes, herbal medicine, and supplementation.
All we have to do is take a look at certain foods known to cause inflammation, which can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. By identifying and eliminating these external triggers, we can reduce overall body inflammation and improve joint function.
To add to the above point about diet: Herbal remedies, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate arthritis pain and stiffness.
Though it might sound counterintuitive, regular exercise is a crucial part of managing arthritis. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga can help strengthen the muscles around your joints, improve your balance, and increase your range of motion.
At LiveWell, our team of personal trainers can help design an exercise program that’s safe, effective, and tailored to your needs and limitations. Remember, it’s not about how much or how fast you can go—it’s about regular, consistent movement to maintain joint health and mobility.
Massage therapy can be a beneficial addition to your arthritis management plan. It can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and increase joint flexibility, which can significantly alleviate arthritis pain.
Custom orthotics, designed to correct foot imbalances, can help distribute your weight more evenly when you walk or stand, reducing strain on your joints. They can be especially beneficial for those with arthritis in the lower limbs or spine, as proper foot alignment can positively impact the alignment of your knees, hips, and back. Orthotics can help reduce joint pain and improve mobility, allowing you to maintain a more active lifestyle.
One simple yet effective strategy for managing arthritis pain at home is the use of heat and cold therapy. Heat can help relax muscles and stimulate blood flow, while cold can reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
A warm bath or shower, a heated blanket, or a hot pack can be used for heat therapy. It’s especially beneficial when you’re about to start an activity.
Apply a gel ice pack or a bag of frozen peas to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. It’s useful after an activity or when your joints are painful or swollen.
Remember, never apply heat or cold directly to the skin—always wrap it in a towel to avoid burns or frostbite.
Finally, it’s essential to mention the role of a positive mindset in managing arthritis. Living with chronic pain can be mentally challenging, leading to feelings of frustration and sadness. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings but also to remember that you have the power to influence your health.
Working with a supportive team like the one at LiveWell can provide you with the tools and guidance you need to manage your arthritis effectively. We’re here to help you every step of the way, offering services that are aimed at not only reducing pain but also improving your overall health and well-being.
Living with arthritis can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, you can lead a fulfilling and active life. Reach out to us at LiveWell Family Health Centre to explore how we can assist you on your journey to better joint health and mobility.
Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or therapy. Everyone is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another.
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