subject: Chiropractor Warrenville Il | Arthritis Doesn't Select Just For Age [print this page] Arthritis is a painArthritis is a pain. That is, it hurts and is quite annoying to have to deal with. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for arthritis, and as a rule, once you have it, you have it forever and it will get worse over time. However, that doesn't mean you have to just give in and stop moving. In fact, the opposite is more likely to be true.
Arthritis Types -
Believe it or not, there are dozens of diseases that fall within the arthritis rubric - nor does arthritis technically affect only bones, but overall, there are two main types. Arthritis is essentially a swelling or inflammation of the joint. The first type, osteoarthritis, is the most common, and can occur as a result or age or insult to the joint. Insults can come from injuries, overuse or excess strain - for example from carrying around too much weight - among other things.
The other main type is rheumatoid arthritis, which is essentially an autoimmune disease, where your body is attacking the joints, causing inflammation and degeneration. And pain. Lots and lots of pain. The end result of this is diminished joint function and maybe even joint replacement.
Pain Mitigation -
For many reasons, joint replacement is not and should not be the first option. Major surgery should be considered more of a last resort, especially as some go much better than others. Hip replacements tend to work fairly well, knees usually have good end results but are difficult to recover from, and shoulders should only be done when mobility is almost nil with the original joint, as that is a possible end result of the replacement. Beyond this, the life of many artificial joints is limited and can lead to multiple surgeries.
Not that this avenue should not be traveled down when necessary, but there are many things that can be done to put this moment off, and, as they also improve your body's overall health, these are the steps that should be taken first.
For example, as tempting as it is, inactivity can actually aggravate the problem rather than easing it. Mild to moderate exercise will usually serve to improve the function of the joint and extend its life. Not to mention that the same thing can help pare down excessive weight - this is also good for the joint in question.
Any program of exercise or change in diet should be undertaken with the advice of a specialist, and when that specialist is also a chiropractor who is trained in manipulating your body in ways that will relieve your pain, it is like getting two sodas with one dollar.
While your pain is being reduced, you can get advice on what diet and exercise program will work best for your needs and will help you maintain the healthiest possible joints. You can also learn if there may be something else you can do in your daily life, such as adjusting your body mechanics or sleeping habits. Every little bit helps and any reduction in pain is a good thing, almost as good as not having to schedule surgery quite yet.
