Arthritis is inflammation of the joints primarily affecting the musculoskeletal system, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced joint mobility. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, with the two most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The pain and inflammation make it challenging to move or continue being active.
Arthritis is most common in the hands, feet, hips, knees, and lower back resulting in swelling, discomfort, stiffness, and decreased joint range of motion. It can be a chronic condition that varies in severity from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. While certain symptoms may stay the same over the years, others may advance and lead to further joint degeneration.
The most common symptoms of arthritis include:
- Pain and stiffness in the joints, which may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- Swelling in the joints, accompanied by redness and warmth in the affected area
- Stiffness in the joints, making it difficult to move the affected joints through their full range of motion
- Weakness in the muscles around the affected joints, making it difficult to perform everyday activities
- Fatigue due to inflammation and pain
How Our Care Plan Works
1. Better
First, getting you out of pain fast and restoring mobility based on your exam and the goals you have for yourself. Our focus is on getting you feeling better and moving better. We prove that our process can help you feel better quickly. This allows you to take control of your health during the restoration process and sets you up for long-term success.
2. Stronger
Next, we create a stronger and healthier you. Through corrective exercises and continued treatments, we focus on healing damaged tissue and rebuilding strength. When you’re no longer constantly thinking about your problem and taking a more active role in your health, you’ll know you’re getting stronger and more confident.
3. Healthier
Here we help you to take ownership of your health. This phase allows you to live the life you want without worrying about pain. Regular “tune-ups” and at-home exercises keep you strong and healthy.
How We Treat Arthritis In Visalia, CA
Comprehensive Consultation and Exam
Our chiropractic approach to arthritis involves a thorough evaluation of your medical history, joint function, and lifestyle. We assess the extent of arthritis-related discomfort and tailor a holistic treatment plan. Gentle adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle recommendations aim to alleviate pain, enhance joint function, and improve overall well-being. Your unique needs guide our personalized care.
Specific Chiropractic Care in Visalia, CA
You’ve probably considered visiting a chiropractor if you’ve experienced back discomfort or a stiff neck due to arthropathy or an injury. While it is true that chiropractors modify or manipulate the spine to reduce pain and increase the range of motion, the advantages may go beyond the back and neck.
Chiropractic enhances the connection between the spine and nervous system, which impacts the function of all the organs and systems in the body. Regular chiropractic appointments can improve overall health and aid with back pain and other symptoms brought on by a misaligned spinal column. To help treat inflammation and pain, they can also work with their patients to design exercise regimens and dietary changes.
Custom Therapeutic Exercises
Our Custom Therapeutic Exercise Program for arthritis patients is designed to suit your unique needs, this personalized regimen aims to enhance joint stability, flexibility, and overall function. Under expert guidance, you’ll engage in targeted exercises that empower your body to better manage arthritis, fostering resilience and promoting a more active lifestyle.
Natural Holistic Care
Medication is the most popular treatment for this condition since it helps lessen pain, swelling, and inflammation. While drugs are effective, they have long-term health concerns, including internal bleeding, stomach lining damage, and impaired healing. But managing arthritis can be significantly aided by the natural approach of chiropractic care.
By seeing a chiropractor, you can lessen your dependency on these medications while managing your pain and symptoms naturally. Chiropractic care can:
- Keep your spine aligned to increase your range of motion.
- Increase flexibility and endurance
- Boost your muscular strength and tone
- Assist you in creating a diet and nutrition strategy to reduce inflammation naturally
Additionally, we might suggest an arthritis-friendly workout program. The American Chiropractic Association states that this is essential for controlling your symptoms.
Common Causes of Arthritis in Visalia, CA
Understanding the lifestyle factors that play a role in the development of arthritis can help individuals take preventive measures to reduce their risk. Some key lifestyle risk factors include:
Obesity
Being overweight or obese puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. This added pressure can accelerate the breakdown of joint cartilage, leading to osteoarthritis. Additionally, fat tissue produces inflammatory substances that can worsen joint inflammation.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining joint health and mobility. Lack of exercise or a sedentary lifestyle can weaken the muscles around joints and reduce joint flexibility, making them more susceptible to injuries and wear and tear.
Joint Injuries
Previous joint injuries, especially those not appropriately treated or allowed to heal correctly, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the affected joint. Athletes, individuals involved in repetitive manual labor, or those with a history of joint trauma are at higher risk.
Diet
A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for overall health, including joint health. Diets rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins C and D may help reduce inflammation and maintain joint integrity. On the other hand, diets high in processed foods, sugary beverages, and unhealthy fats may contribute to inflammation and worsen arthritis symptoms.
Smoking
Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis and may worsen symptoms in those with existing arthritis. Smoking can trigger inflammation and affect the immune system, potentially leading to autoimmune responses.
Joint Overuse
Repetitive movements or overuse of certain joints can lead to early cartilage degeneration, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis. Avoiding excessive strain on specific joints and balancing physical activities to prevent overuse injuries is essential.
Stress
Chronic stress may contribute to inflammation and exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and adequate sleep, can benefit joint health.
Occupation
Some occupations involving repetitive movements or requiring heavy lifting can strain joints significantly, increasing the risk of joint injuries and osteoarthritis.
While factors like age and genetics are beyond our control, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of developing arthritis or slow its progression. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and managing stress are essential components of a joint-friendly lifestyle.
Check Out Our Location Near You
3710 W Mineral King Ave, Visalia, CA 93291
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent arthritis?
Your risk of acquiring arthritis can be decreased by:
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Exercising without bearing weight and with minimum impact
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Regular chiropractic care
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
The most common symptoms of this condition include pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, and fatigue. The specific symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition.
How is arthritis treated with chiropractic?
While conventional medicine may treat arthritis with medication and steroid injections, chiropractic care is a natural, non-invasive approach to managing arthritis symptoms. Chiropractic aims to address the underlying causes of arthritis to relieve pain and other symptoms.
When should I see a chiropractor for arthritis?
There are several causes of joint pain and swelling. An injury, overuse, or brand-new physical activity could bring it on. Pain is the body’s way of alerting us to a problem, so pain should not be ignored.
See a chiropractor if you have pain and stiffness that begins suddenly, lasts more than a few days, and results in swelling, redness, and warmth. It’s critical to start treatment as soon as possible to stop the problem from worsening and creating long-term harm.
