Arthritis Treatment to Relieve Pain & Improve Mobility

Arthritis is a term used to describe conditions that affect the joints and can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement. There are many different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common and is associated with changes to the cartilage, bone and other tissues within a joint.

Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness and reduced movement. Some people also experience swelling, tenderness, clicking or grinding sensations. Symptoms can vary considerably and may be worse after periods of inactivity or following certain activities.

Chiropractic care cannot cure arthritis or reverse structural changes within a joint, but treatment may help some people manage associated pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. Depending on the joints affected, treatment may include mobilisation, manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, exercise and advice on remaining active.

These terms sound similar but describe different conditions. Spondylosis refers to degenerative changes or osteoarthritis affecting the spine and is sometimes described as “wear and tear” of the neck or back. Spondylitis refers to inflammation of the spine and includes conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis (axial spondyloarthritis). If we suspect an inflammatory condition rather than ordinary osteoarthritis, we may recommend further medical investigation or referral.

Osteoarthritis can affect the joints of the spine and may contribute to pain, stiffness and reduced movement in the back or neck. Where appropriate, treatment may focus on maintaining movement, reducing stiffness and improving function. We’ll assess you first to determine whether chiropractic treatment is suitable for your particular condition.

Changes associated with arthritis in the spine can sometimes reduce the space available around a nerve and contribute to nerve irritation or compression. This can cause symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness or weakness in an arm or leg. In the lower back, nerve irritation can sometimes produce symptoms commonly described as sciatica.

Yes. Regular exercise is an important part of managing osteoarthritis. Appropriate strengthening and aerobic exercise can help improve joint function, maintain muscle strength and reduce symptoms. The best exercises will depend on which joints are affected, your current level of mobility and your overall health.

Some changes associated with osteoarthritis can be visible on X-rays, including changes in joint space and the formation of bony spurs. However, X-ray findings do not always correspond closely with the amount of pain someone experiences. Imaging is therefore considered alongside your symptoms and physical examination rather than in isolation.

Not necessarily. Although structural changes associated with osteoarthritis can increase with age, the amount of arthritis visible on an X-ray does not always match a person’s symptoms. Many people with arthritic changes remain active and manage their symptoms successfully with appropriate exercise, movement and treatment.

Optimum Spine Centre is located at 1212 London Road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 2UA. We assess patients with osteoarthritis, spinal arthritis and associated joint, back and neck pain from Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff, Hadleigh, Benfleet, Rayleigh and surrounding areas. You can book an appointment online or call us on 01702 710084.