What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people across the globe. It can cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints, often making everyday movements taxing and arduous to manage. Arthritis has several types, but broadly speaking they fall into one of two forms. They are Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, also referred to as “OA”, is a condition that can manifest when the cushioning cartilage that protects the ends of your bones in your joints begins to wear away. This wear happens over a period of time and typically affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, spine or hips. This friction can create pain and stiffness, causing discomfort and limiting movement.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Also called “RA”, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation, damage and pain. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple joints and may lead to deformities if not managed properly.
There are various treatments to help with arthritis, including medication and supplements. Another form of treatment that can improve your joint function and relieve painful symptoms is osteopathy.
How Does Osteopathy Work?
Osteopathy is an approach that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, including bones, muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues. Practitioners use a variety of manual techniques, such as gentle manipulation, stretching, and massage to enhance the body’s natural healing processes and improve overall function. Osteopathy can be a fantastic treatment for arthritis, as it can target the affected areas specifically. Today, it’s easier than ever to see an osteopath, with clinics all over the country, like Tim Wood Healthcare in Rainham, Kent. Osteopathy includes a number of methods and techniques that can be useful in alleviating the painful symptoms of arthritis.
How can Osteopathy Help With Arthritis?
Reducing Inflammation and Pain – Osteopathy can help reduce inflammation in the joints by improving blood flow. By addressing areas of tension or muscle imbalance, osteopathy can also relieve pressure on the joints, reducing pain and discomfort.
Improve Joint Mobility – Arthritis can cause joints to become stiff and immobile, which can further contribute to pain and discomfort. Osteopaths use gentle techniques to mobilize the affected joints, increase range of motion, and reduce stiffness.
Muscle Support – Muscles surrounding affected arthritic joints often become weak or tense as a result of compensating for pain or reduced movement. Osteopathic treatment aims to strengthen and relax these muscles, providing better support for the joints and reducing further wear and tear.
Improved Posture – Poor posture can place strain on arthritic joints, worsening symptoms and causing pain. Osteopaths work to correct these issues, helping the body function more efficiently and reducing the load on damaged joints but improving posture, whether sitting, standing or walking.
Benefits of Osteopathic Treatment for Arthritis
By gently manipulating an affected area of pain, osteopaths can help reduce pain and tension, improving circulation and leading to a sense of contentment and relaxation, as the body is releasing pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins. Individuals who suffer with arthritis may find themselves used to a reduction in movement and flexibility, but osteopaths know better. Through manual techniques, your practitioner can help you regain some of that lost movement, bringing you closer to your old self. Osteopathy focuses entirely on physical, non-invasive and drug-free methods, making it an attractive option to those looking to limit surgery or medication, or take a more holistic approach to their health. Osteopathy focuses on an individualised, multidisciplinary approach, catering a treatment plan that suits you, including a number of techniques like stretches, massage, trigger point therapy and steps you can take at home or at work.
Osteopathy is most effective when used as part of a combined comprehensive arthritis treatment plan, encompassing a healthy diet, regular exercise and if applicable, medication prescribed by your GP. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can slow many of us down every day. Utilising the many treatments available, including osteopathy, we can mitigate and reduce these symptoms, severely limiting the effect arthritis has on daily life.
