According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 58 million Americans have been diagnosed with arthritis. That means approximately one-quarter of all adults suffer from some kind of discomfort or pain due to arthritis.
Arthritis refers to a variety of inflammatory conditions that cause stiffness and/or pain in one or more joints. While arthritis can impact any joint, it is most commonly found in the hands, hips, or knees.
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are many treatment options people pursue to help them live with the condition, minimize pain, and preserve the functioning of the joint. Some people manage their symptoms with medication, while others opt for physical therapy. Some people make lifestyle changes in diet and exercise, while others pursue alternative methods such as acupuncture and yoga.
As researchers learn more and more about the importance of spinal health, many patients are finding safe, effective, non-invasive relief from arthritis symptoms by seeking upper cervical care.
Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis
The first signs of arthritis usually involve stiffness in the joint and joint pain. The pain is usually a dull ache, though for some people it may feel more like a burning sensation. The pain is usually felt deep in the joints or bones.
People with arthritis may experience swelling or tenderness in the joint area. They may feel like the joint needs to crack, or it may feel or sound like a bone is grinding when they move the joint. The swelling and pain caused by arthritis may impact a person’s posture or may cause limping.
Arthritis pain may feel worse with physical activity, or from rainy, damp weather. Rest can help, though sometimes sitting or lying in certain positions can exacerbate pain. Joints may be stiffer after sitting for too long, or upon first getting up in the morning.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Impacts Arthritis
In some cases, arthritis is caused or worsened by degenerative disc disorders, traumas, or misfunctioning nerves in the Central Nervous System. Correcting misalignments of the upper cervical spine offers patients a drug-free, non-invasive, natural way to treat these root causes of arthritis.
The upper cervical spine is situated just below the skull near the brain stem, right at the top of the spine. When any of the uppermost seven vertebrae are out of alignment, it can cause inflammation and put pressure on vital nerves, impeding the flow of signals.
A misalignment in the upper cervical area also causes the body to shift to compensate so that the head is balanced properly. This shift, no matter how slight, puts the entire musculoskeletal system into an unnatural position that places stress on the rest of the joints and discs going down the body. Such stress can exacerbate arthritis pain and accelerate joint degeneration.
How Upper Cervical Care Helps Arthritis Pain
Chiropractic care can be a beneficial addition to an arthritis sufferer’s healthcare routine. A chiropractor can help keep the spine in a healthy state, reducing inflammation and swelling. Nerves can function properly, and the body’s natural healing mechanisms are working optimally. Joints and discs are relieved of unnecessary stress and pressure. This helps improve flexibility, increases mobility, and slows down any degeneration that may be caused by disease or aging.
Dr. Alex Bello of Los Angeles Upper Cervical is a specialist in the upper cervical spine. He treats arthritis patients using the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a gentle technique that makes the most of advanced technology to help the doctor calculate precise adjustments.
Using advanced 3D diagnostic imaging tools, Dr. Bello can get a more comprehensive picture of your anatomy so that he can make longer-lasting adjustments. The Blair method involves a lighter touch as well, rather than the sudden twists and jerks associated with traditional chiropractic methods. This gentle technique is more comfortable and effective for patients with arthritis.
Don’t let arthritis pain hold you back from doing things you enjoy. Call Dr. Bello for an appointment. He offers upper cervical chiropractic care to patients in Brentwood, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, Culver City, Marina Del Rey, West Los Angeles, and the surrounding areas.