Vancouver Massage Therapy and Chiropractor treatment for Arthritis Pain

Vancouver Chiropractor Treatment for Arthritis

There are different types of arthritis. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis (OA), which is the degeneration of the joint. Inside a joint, there is cartilage covering the bone to allow for smooth motion. However, the cartilage can deteriorate and lead to stiffness, pain, and decreased flexibility.

What is the cause of arthritis (OA)?

Arthritis can be a normal part of aging. The cartilage inside the joint can start wearing down with age, improper movement of the joint, poor posture,  positioning of the joints, overuse, and traumatic injuries. There is usually increased improper rubbing of the cartilage, causing the thinning of the cartilage, and in severe cases rubbing on the bone.

This condition tends to develop slowly. The good news is that arthritis does not always cause pain! There are steps taken to help maintain a healthy joint.

Do I have arthritis?

Arthritis (OA) is characterized by stiffness, pain (sharp or dull), and decreased flexibility in the affected joint. Arthritis tends to feel better with gentle movement and stretching. A doctor may request an X-ray to confirm the severity of the arthritis in some cases.

Common body parts are:

  • Hip arthritis

  • Knee arthritis

  • Spinal arthritis

  • Shoulder arthritis

Person holding their lower back and hip because of pain needing a massage therapy and chiropractic appointment in vancouver

What is an effective treatment for arthritis?

The good news is there are conservative and safe treatments for maintaining healthy joints and managing arthritic symptoms! A Vancouver chiropractor, massage therapist, and physiotherapist can play an active role in the treatment of this condition. At Omni Health and Wellness Vancouver, we recommend the following:

  • Strengthen supporting musculature of the joint to increase joint stability. For example, in hip arthritis, it may be beneficial to strengthen the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus muscles

  • Improve movement patterns. The main reason for joints to become arthritic is improper motion and pressure on the cartilage. Proper alignment and movement can help distribute the pressure on the cartilage.

  • Increase joint space. Stretching certain muscles and ligaments can open up the joint space allowing for less pressure on the cartilage

  • Movement and mobility drills. This helps with allowing nutrient-rich synovial fluid in the joint to cover the joint and deliver vital nutrients to the cartilage

  • Chiropractic adjustment and mobilizations. Restores proper movement of the joint and also helps with synovial fluid to keep joints healthy

  • Massage therapy. Tense muscles are targeted to decrease the pressure of that joint. It also helps with swelling as a result of arthritis

Book an appointment today at Omni Health and Wellness Vancouver to start managing your arthritis.

Massage Therapy and Arthritis

Massage therapy can also help with arthritic joints! Your RMT is trained to treat the muscle around the joint which assists in its proper function. The goal is to decrease muscle tension to reduce the compression of the joint. Some techniques are also used to decrease any swelling that might be present. Learn more about massage therapy here!