Arthritis Pain

myo lab employee doing arthritis therapy

Understanding Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions in Canada, affecting approximately 1 in 5 adults, according to the Arthritis Society. This means millions of Canadians—and tens of thousands of Calgarians—live with the daily challenges posed by this condition. 

This condition doesn’t just affect older adults; it’s unfortunately the leading cause of disability among working-age individuals, impacting their ability to work, care for their families, and enjoy life to the fullest.

The physical and emotional toll of arthritis is immense, with many experiencing chronic pain, stiffness, and fatigue. That being said, a simple diagnosis of arthritis should not be looked at as a “death-sentence” where you are hopelessly unable to experience a good quality of life. Proper conservative care and pain management can be incredibly effective if not at a severe/marked arthritis progression, so act as early as you can if you’re presented with any diagnosis related to arthritis!

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is not a single disease but a group of over 100 conditions that cause joint inflammation and pain. The term “arthritis” literally means “inflammation of the joint.” While it can affect any joint in the body, we see it commonly targeting the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Arthritis can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and disability, significantly affecting mobility and daily activities.

Two of the most common types of arthritis are:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): Often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis, OA occurs when the cartilage—the hard, slippery tissue covering the ends of bones where they form a joint—breaks down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced joint mobility.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, joint damage, and sometimes systemic symptoms like fatigue or fever.

Other forms of arthritis include gout, which results from the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, and arthritis caused by infections or underlying diseases such as psoriasis or lupus.

How Arthritis Affects Your Body

Arthritis often starts with subtle symptoms, such as morning stiffness or occasional joint pain, but it can progress into more severe discomfort and loss of function. Left unmanaged, arthritis can lead to joint deformities, reduced range of motion, and even systemic health issues in some cases, such as cardiovascular complications.

Causes of Arthritis

While the exact cause of arthritis can vary depending on the type, several common factors contribute to its development:

  1. Genetics: A family history of arthritis increases your risk.
  2. Age: The likelihood of developing arthritis increases with age.
  3. Injury: Previous joint injuries can lead to arthritis later in life.
  4. Obesity: Excess weight puts added stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
  5. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, lack of exercise, and poor diet can contribute to the onset or worsening of arthritis.
  6. Autoimmune Triggers: For conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, environmental or genetic factors can trigger an immune response.

Symptoms of Arthritis

Recognizing the symptoms of arthritis early can help in managing the condition effectively. Common symptoms include:

  • Joint pain and tenderness
  • Swelling around the affected joints
  • Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes
  • Reduced range of motion
  • A grinding or clicking sensation in the joints
  • Fatigue or general malaise, particularly with inflammatory types like RA

How Chiropractors Treat Arthritis

myo lab employee using laser therapy for arthritis

At MYo Lab, our Chiropractors and Physiotherapists focus on a natural, non-invasive approach to managing arthritis symptoms. We want to improve joint mobility to get rid of the stiffness, reduce inflammation to help with the pain, and essentially enhance overall function. 

These methods include:

  • Spinal Adjustments: Spinal adjustments are gentle, precise movements that realign the spine and affected joints. These adjustments can relieve pressure on the surrounding tissues, improve overall joint mobility, and reduce the stress that contributes to inflammation. Many patients find that regular adjustments help ease pain and stiffness while restoring a better range of motion.
  • Physiotherapy: Beyond adjustments, we incorporate tailored physical therapy into treatment plans. This includes exercises and stretches designed to strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected joints. Stronger muscles provide better joint support, reducing strain and improving flexibility. We guide our patients through these movements to ensure proper form and maximize benefits.
  • Acupuncture and Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS): We may also incorporate acupuncture and IMS into your treatment plan. Acupuncture stimulates your nervous system to release natural pain-relieving chemicals, while IMS targets muscle tightness and trigger points to ease pressure on your joints. These therapies work together to restore your comfort and mobility.
  • Shockwave Therapy: For persistent joint pain, we use shockwave therapy to stimulate blood flow and cellular repair in damaged tissues. This non-invasive technique is especially effective for chronic pain in areas like your knees, hips, and shoulders. Our goal is to promote healing and provide lasting relief.
  • Cold Laser Therapy: Cold laser therapy is another tool we use to reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue repair in arthritic joints. This painless, non-invasive treatment accelerates your body’s natural healing process, helping you feel better faster. It’s ideal for reducing stiffness and improving joint function.
  • Custom Foot Orthotics: If arthritis affects your weight-bearing joints, custom foot orthotics can make a difference. We design orthotics to support proper alignment, reduce pressure on painful areas, and redistribute your weight to minimize joint stress. This helps you move more comfortably and confidently in your daily life.
  • Lifestyle Advice: We understand that managing arthritis goes beyond hands-on treatments. It’s a lifestyle change. And so we provide personalised advice to address factors contributing to arthritis symptoms. This includes stretches and exercises you can do from your home, dietary recommendations to reduce inflammation, and tips for protecting joints during daily activities. By addressing these lifestyle factors, we want to help you create a holistic plan for long-term joint health.

By combining these approaches, we address the root causes of arthritis symptoms, helping you get long-term relief and an improved quality of life.

Patient Success Stories/Testimonials 

“I LOVE working out again! Chiro and Massage, in combo with my Training, have literally changed my life; I no longer suffer from TMJ and the osteoarthritis in both knees and my thumbs ( volleyball@!&@) is under control 👍  

Give MYo a try…you will be hooked!!!! ”

Gwyn A.

“About 18 months ago my trainer convinced me to see Dr Evan Schwindt. I was very hesitant initially, I am so grateful to Evan for giving me back a quality of life after many years of not sleeping due to pain. You truly work miracles.”

Jacinta C.

“For the last few years I have had a dull ache in both of my knees. Both of my parents have had bad knees and I decided to look into preventative treatment before they got to the point where I was going to need surgery. I had never done chiro before so I was a little nervous. I was booked in with Chiro who explained the treatment plan and made me feel comfortable. I would highly recommend MYo Lab as I have noticed a huge difference in my knees just with daily activity.  ”

Martinne S.

FAQs About Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is more of a general term for conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues. The most common types are osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joints. Other forms of arthritis, like gout and psoriatic arthritis, stem from unique causes such as uric acid buildup or underlying health issues.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Diagnosing arthritis starts with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Your Chiropractor or healthcare provider may ask about symptoms, family history, and lifestyle factors. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs are often used to assess joint damage. In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to identify specific markers, especially for autoimmune types like rheumatoid arthritis.

Can Chiropractic care help with arthritis?

Yes, chiropractic care can be highly effective in managing arthritis symptoms. By using spinal adjustments, physical therapy, and lifestyle recommendations, we can reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall joint function. While Chiropractic care doesn’t cure arthritis, it provides significant relief and helps patients maintain an active and comfortable lifestyle.

What techniques do Chiropractors use for arthritis?

As Chiropractors, we use several techniques to address arthritis symptoms. These include spinal manipulation to restore alignment, soft tissue therapy to relieve tension around joints, and mobilization techniques to improve flexibility. They may also recommend customized exercises and ergonomic modifications to support joint health in daily activities.

How often should I see a Chiropractor for arthritis?

The frequency of visits depends on your symptoms and treatment goals. Initially, you may need more frequent adjustments to address acute pain or stiffness. As your condition improves, visits may become less frequent, focusing on maintenance care. We’ll develop a personalized plan based on your progress.

Will I experience immediate relief from chiropractic adjustments?

Many patients feel some relief after their first adjustment, but the degree and timing of results vary. Chronic or severe cases of arthritis may require several sessions to notice significant improvement. We’ll discuss realistic expectations and track your progress throughout treatment.

What should I expect during my first Chiropractic visit for arthritis?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive evaluation. This includes discussing your medical history, a physical examination, and possibly imaging tests. Based on these findings, we’ll explain your condition and create a treatment plan. At this point, we’ll also answer any questions you have to ensure you feel confident moving forward.

How MYo Lab Can Help

If you’re dealing with the pain and discomfort from arthritis, you can book an appointment with one of our Chiropractors. Alternatively, you can call us at (403)930-8686. We’re currently accepting new patients.

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