Arthritis is a common condition, but not as thoroughly understood by a majority afflicted as it could be. The Global RA Network reports that arthritis is an umbrella term for over 100 types of disease. The word “arthro-” means joint and “-itis” refers to inflammation, thus arthritis refers broadly to joint inflammation, and is often associated with joint pain. Arthritis is a leading cause of disability and affects more than 350 million people globally. Arthritis affects people of all ages, races, and both genders, but more women develop it than men. The Global RA Network states “Contrary to popular belief, arthritis is not a disease of the elderly; more than three in five people diagnosed with arthritis are under the age of 65.”
Common arthritis joint symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion. Symptoms often come and go in intensities ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms also vary in consistency. Some people experience the same level of pain while others suffer more as time gradually passes. Severe arthritis results in chronic pain, inability to do daily activities, and difficulty accomplishing simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs. Permanent joint changes also accompany some cases of arthritis.
According to Arthritis Ireland, about 750,000 Irish people have arthritis and that “by the year 2030, 25% of adults aged 18 years and older will have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.” The most common type of arthritis comes in the form of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis involves degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone, most commonly beginning in middle age. This form causes pain and stiffness, especially in the hip, knee, spine and thumb joints. Arthritis is much more common among people who have other chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
Arthritis and other joint disorders not caused by specific traumatic accidents rank among the five most costly conditions among adults aged 18 and older. The number of people expected to experience doctor-diagnosed arthritis continues to grow. As these staggering numbers continue to grow, the need for long-lasting, non-invasive and drugless relief for arthritis sufferers becomes very appealing and relevant. Chiropractic care provides a solution.
Research published in 2013, in Osteoarthritis Cartilage, a prestigious medical journal, showed that arthritis patients experienced greater results and relief through manual therapy, delivered via Chiropractic care, more than any other utilised intervention. The arthritis group which received Chiropractic care engaged in two visits per week for six consecutive weeks, a small representation of life changing benefits originating from a simple non-invasive plan to improve overall health. Chiropractic does not specifically offer a treatment or cure for arthritis or any other condition. Chiropractors assess and correct structural joint problems to improve mobility, alignment, and nervous system function. The powerful healing capacity within the body begins to optimise function and performance. One of many resulting benefits of Chiropractic care manifests in the form of reduced pain and inflammation. Arthritis sufferers represent one of many groups who benefit from learning about and experiencing the benefits of nervous system care. Chiropractic works.
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