Why Chiropractic Works Well Against Joint Pain

As seasons change, you may notice some pain in your joints. Fortunately, Chiropractic care can help. When most people hear “Chiropractic care” they usually think of spinal problems and back pain. Chiropractic cares for people’s conditions other than pain in the joints of the spine. It can be used for joints all over the body, including ankles, knees, shoulders, hips, and wrists. Chiropractic is a natural, whole body approach to health care and wellness.   It is also an effective way to manage chronic joint pain such as arthritis.

What Causes Joint Pain and Immobility?

There are several reasons why a joint becomes painful. Trauma such as a fall, being hit while playing sports, or a motor vehicle accident, cause injury. Repetitive use injury such as working on an assembly line or using a computer all day, are also culprits.

Inflammatory diet cause problems.  Stress can also be a factor. Stress affects the entire body, including its chemicals and hormones that can lead to joint damage or weakness, making you more prone to injury.

Finally, age may be a factor. As we get older, our bodies don’t hold up like they once did. This can mean joint pain and decreased range of motion. The colder months can instigate pain in the major joints, including the knees, back, hips, and shoulders.

Why does Cold Weather Exacerbate Joint Pain?

One of the most popular theories is that low pressure systems typically accompany the cooler temps. The lower pressure can cause the tissues in already sensitive joints to expand.   Expansion is the perfect environment for inflammation including aches, tenderness, decreased range of motion, and swelling.

Other factors that may also affect joint pain in cooler weather are  dehydration, a sedentary lifestyle, and depression.  Dehydration is more common than you may think; most people do not have adequate water intake.

Sodas, coffee, and milk don’t count as hydration, only water does. Generally, people don’t hydrate as much when the weather is cool – or not as much as they did during the warm summer months.  Water recommendations are for half your body wight in ounces every day.  Therefore, a 150 pound person needs 75 ounces of water each day.

When the weather cools down people become less active, especially if there is snow and ice on the ground. Lack of exercise can lead to serious joint troubles.

Depression can also impact your entire body, including your joints. Many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Doctors believe that it occurs because of the shorter days and generally darker skies during the winter months. Depression and anxiety have strong ties to chronic pain as a whole, including joint pain.

How Chiropractic Helps Relieve Joint Pain

Chiropractic provides an all-natural, holistic approach to health. It does not use medications or invasive medical procedures.

The chiropractor usually begins by aligning the spine, which is called an “adjustment.” This brings the body back into alignment so that it can function more efficient and with less pain. The patient may also be given recommendations on lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, exercise, and supplements.

When the body is aligned, the entire system is balanced. This allows the body to work at a more optimal rate. As a result, the range of motion improves and the pain is decreased or even completely eliminated.