The side effects of rheumatoid arthritis can be a constant roadblock and something patients will deal with their entire lives. Traditional treatments with medication or surgery aren’t always effective, which is why some patients explore chiropractic care. The following is a helpful guide to ensure you or a loved one receives the necessary care.

Your Guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis & Chiropractic Care

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its own tissue. It’s a chronic condition that affects the lining of your joints. Patients experience extensive, painful swelling in the knees, hands, and spine. There can be constant stiffness and fatigue, and many people develop mobility limitations. As the joint's cartilage and bone are destroyed, you may face continuous pain. As the condition worsens, patients may experience reactions in the eye, heart, nerve tissue, and other vital organs.

How Can a Chiropractor Help?

Chiropractic care takes several unique approaches to treat rheumatoid arthritis, especially for pain in the neck or back. The chiropractor will first X-ray affected areas and examine your joints to diagnose the disorder properly. They’ll then manually adjust your spine. Poor posture, injuries, and other bad habits naturally draw your spine out of alignment and generate pain. The same can happen in the joints. The chiropractor will apply force to joints and vertebra to realign these areas and alleviate inflammation. This also reduces pressure on nerve pathways, so your central nervous system communicates better.

They may next try ultrasound therapy. Sending sound waves into the soft tissue in and around joints can have a massaging effect that reduces stiffness. They may do the same with a cold laser or by sending electrical pulses into this tissue. Many patients report an increased range of motion and reduced joint stiffness from these non-invasive therapies. It may take some trial and error, but eventually, a chiropractor will find the right balance and hopefully eliminate the need for medication or surgery.

If you’re looking for a chiropractic care professional in St. Louis, MO, reach out to Team-Health Chiropractic. This practice uses on-site diagnostics and chiropractic adjustments to manage a variety of conditions. Whether you’re dealing with an auto accident injury, headaches, or back pain, they’ll create a custom treatment plan to address all your needs. Call (314) 567-9990 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about the practice. You’ll find more health insights on their Facebook page.