Arthritis

In general terms, arthritis is a gradual breakdown or deterioration of the joint spaces in your musculoskeletal system. According to some experts, 8 out of 10 Americans over the age of 55 suffer from one form of arthritis or another. In many cases, arthritis can become so painful and debilitating, simple tasks such as opening a jar or holding a pencil can be difficult. Arthritis affects everyone in different ways. In some, joints in the spine, fingers, wrists, shoulders, knees—even toes—lose their normal shape and large amounts of fluid and debris fill the joint space.

There are many causes of arthritis. A major cause is simply age. Injury or suppressed or weakened immune systems are others. Some people have no choiceit is simply hereditary.

In most people, the body responds to the onset of arthritis by making extra bone. Your body makes this material in an attempt to shore up the degenerating joint. This additional material, or overgrowth, is called a bone spur or osteophyte. Bone spurs are typically found in the joint or disc spaces, where cartilage has begun to break down or deteriorate. Bone spurs sometimes block the spaces where nerve roots leave the spinal canal.

There are many symptoms of arthritis, including:

  • Burning
  • Cramping
  • Inflammation
  • Joint pain
  • Loss of muscle control
  • Muscle spasms
  • Numbness
  • Pain
  • Stabbing pain in the extremities

Major types of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

The degenerative form of arthritis that mostly affects the elderly is called osteoarthritis. In some, osteoarthritis may affect the spine's facet joints, making it extremely painful to bend or twist. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage to break down and away from the joints.

Stripped of their protective material, the joints begin rubbing against each other, causing pain and impeding movement. This action further irritates the surrounding nerves. Advanced forms of spinal osteoarthritis lead to disc collapse and other problems. An equally painful and destructive form of arthritis is called rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammation of the joint tissues, leading to pain, weakness, low red blood cell count (anemia), and loss of appetite.

Physical therapy has been shown to help people with arthritis.

Physical therapy can be used to reduce pain, restore mobility, function, strength, and flexibility, and prevent unnecessary disability.

Physical therapy can also help people suffering from arthritis to self-manage their pain, giving them a sense of confidence, empowerment, and hope.

Common exercises may include wall walking (which targets the shoulder joints) and the chair rise (which strengthens your legs and makes standing and sitting safer). Good examples of appropriate activities for those living with arthritis include aquatic exercises (such as swimming), walking, bicycling, golf, and cross-country skiing.

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Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "My initial reason for seeking chiropractic care was because I was having some back, neck, and shoulder problems. I had seen other chiropractors and achieved no results. This was not the case at The Body Connection. The experience here is very educational in learning how the body works. I am now able to function in a lot less pain. As a result, I am now more active and look at life with more understanding on how to stay healthy."
    Maria H.
  • "I first encountered The Body Connection through Groupon when I came in for a massage. I had a conversation with Dr. Logan and as a result of being treated here, I am now able to do intense workouts, boot camp, and boxing. I have also experienced increased weight loss and now have better posture. Dr. Logan and her staff have been very supportive."
    Lora K.
  • "I have been treated by other chiropractors in the past and over the years coming to The Body Connection has been a wonderful experience. I initially came in for lower back and hip pain. As of now, my flexibility has improved and my pain has diminished. I can now walk and stand for longer periods of time. Also doing daily house work isn’t as painful. I feel better after being treated by the doctor. My energy level is increased and it also improves my state of mind."
    Laura C.
  • "After the awesome massage I enjoyed, I decided to have a consultation with Dr. Logan who encouraged me and stated she could help me. I can now hold my head up better and my chronic headache syndrome has subsided. My experience at The Body Connection has been marvelous. To say it plainly; I just feel better!"
    Maura M.
  • "Prior to meeting the staff of The Body Connection Health and Wellness Center at a Ladies Day Expo, I had no knowledge of chiropractic care. Dr. Logan educated me on how the different issues I was experiencing were connected. As a result of getting treated at this facility, my body feels better. I am now able to sit and ride in a car without feeling the lower back pain and spasms of the past."
    Judith H.