Chiropractic And Arthritis - By: William McKenna

What is Arthritis?

The word 'arthritis' means inflammation of the joint. There are many types of arthritis that can cause inflammation, and in spite of common belief that it is an age-related problem, arthritic conditions can occur at any age, and can affect different regions of the body. It can also cause damage to bones and joints and in some rarer cases it can affect the soft tissues, ligaments, heart valves and even the lungs.

Types

• Degenerative- Caused by 'wear and tear' this is perhaps the most common type of arthritis. This is the result of repetitive use causing damage to a joint. Poor circulation, blood flow and nerve supply can all contribute to the deterioration of a joint also. The term Osteoarthritis is given to this type of arthritis.

• Auto-immune- Rheumatoid, Psoriatic and ankylosing arthritis are types of autoimmune disease which give rise to arthritic symptoms. Auto-immune disorders are when the body's immune defenses attack the body's cells, rather than invading antigens. There is no known medical explanation for these types of diseases.

• Crystal Deposits- Gout is a type of arthritis where tiny crystals are deposited in the joint spaces causing excruciating pain and inflammation. In Gout, the big toe is the most common joint affected, but any of the small joints and occasionally the knee, can be affected. The deposits come from dietary intake, and pruned in processed meats and alcohol are mainly to blame. Other types of mineral crystals can cause problems as well.

• Septic- This is probably the most acute type of arthritis. It is caused when infection gets into a joint and manifests as a red, inflamed joint, hot to touch, and the sufferer may be feeling unwell and have a fever. It is important to be seen by a doctor as it may indicate systemic illness, or lead to complications.

How Can Chiropractic Help?

Arthritis sufferers are often on a longterm regime of daily painkillers. This not only reduces the drug's effectiveness of relieving pain after a while, but also comes with side-effects, some of which are serious. Regular, longterm use of anti-inflammatory drugs can cause stomach problems and can reduce the body's ability to heal. In osteoarthritis the ability to heal cartilage is lessened also. Auto-immune disorders have no known cure, however, Chiropractic offers a natural treatment without the use of drugs, and with no side-effects and has been proven in multiple studies to offer relief from pain. Chiropractic can also increase nerve supply and circulation to joints, promoting healing at a deeper level.

Copyright (c) 2010 William McKenna

About the Author

William McKenna is a Chiropractor in Pelham, NY who treats patients with arthritis as well as other conditions. He uses cold laser therapy and Chiropractic adjustments to reliev the painful symptoms associated wuth arthritis. If you suffer from this condition please lokk at his website::> http://www.drwillmck.com

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/William-McKenna/128512

Additional Articles From - Home | Disease & illness | Gout