Joint Pain Treatment in Anchorage, AK

What Causes Joint Pain?

Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of joint pain, especially among older adults. An estimated one out of every two adults will eventually develop symptoms of osteoarthritis in one or more joints.

Each joint in your body contains a thin layer of cartilage that covers the ends of the bones. Cartilage is a firm tissue with a rubbery feel. It creates a smooth, cushioning surface that allows your bones to move and your joints to function.

Over time, your cartilage wears down, which leads to joint pain. Bone spurs can develop, and your natural inflammatory response can further harm your remaining cartilage. In the latter stages of osteoarthritis, most of your cartilage is gone, leaving no protection from direct bone-on-bone contact.

How Can Chiropractic Care Help with Osteoarthritis?

Your treatment begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. X-ray imaging can provide additional insight into the source of your pain.

If it appears that a structural issue is causing your joint pain, various adjustment techniques might improve your condition. Your doctor explains which techniques are best for your specific scenario before moving forward with treatment.

Spinal manipulation can effectively treat osteoarthritic pain in your lower back or neck. This approach uses targeted, hands-on force to alter the physical alignment of a specific joint.

In some cases, a spinal mobilization is a preferable approach. This procedure uses a slower, less forceful application of pressure to mobilize the targeted joint.

Are There Other Chiropractic Treatments for Joint Pain?

Chiropractors use numerous approaches other than spinal manipulation to treat joint pain. Most of those treatment options focus on treating the tissues surrounding the painful joint.

Techniques Include:

• Electrotherapy to stimulate muscle and nerve tissue
• Ultrasound to decrease swelling, stiffness, and pain
• Low-level laser to penetrate tissue and reduce inflammation
• Infrared sauna to provide heat that improves circulation and reduces pain

Your doctor helps you determine your joint pain's source and find the appropriate treatment approach. In many cases, a combination of techniques yields the best results.

If you’d like to learn more or have any questions or concerns, schedule a consultation by calling the office or using the simple online tool.