JOINT PAIN

Introduction
The human body has over 200 bones. Anywhere they come together forms a joint. Joints are everywhere. Everyone is familiar with moveable joints in their hips and shoulder, but immobile joints also exist in the skull and spine. Did you know there are over thirty joints in the hands and four in the skull?

Properly functioning joints are not only what keeps us moving; they also keep us stable.But that changes if they stop working the way they’re supposed to. Nearly everyone has experienced some degree of joint pain at some point in their life.

What Is Joint Pain?
Some joints provide support, while others permit movement.When they work properly, they’re strong and fluid. Pain is your body’s signal that something isn’t working right.

A thick elastic material called cartilage coats the end of each bone. Cartilage is stiff but not as rigid as bone, yet also flexible and strong. This coating protects the bone from shock and other damage.A lubricating fluid called synovial fluid coats the cartilage. It reduces friction between the bones.

Joints are enclosed by ligaments that hold it all together.Thin fluid-filled sacs called the bursaelie just outside the joint. Bursae act as cushions between the joint and the soft tissues, like skin and muscle, which surround it. Muscles provide the force that moves each bone.

The Causes of Joint Pain
Joint pain happens when one of those parts joint no longer functions properly.This loss of function can happen through age-related conditions, illness, or injury.

Osteoarthritis sometimes called degenerative joint disease or OA is one of the most common causes of joint pain.OA is a chronic age-related condition. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage breaks down causing swelling, pain, and problems moving the joint.

Rheumatoid arthritis, sometimes called RA, is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when your immune system attacks the lining of your joints. Chronic inflammation causes the joint to swell and become painful.

Muscle strain from overuse is another common cause of joint pain. Overuse injuries are caused by repeatedly using a joint or using poor technique.

The Treatment of Joint Pain
When you first visit a chiropractor, he or she will discuss your health history and condition. Your doctor will perform a complete chiropractic exam that looks at your posture as well as tests your flexibility and reflexes.

After your consult, your chiropractor may take x-rays. These images help him or her develop the most effective treatment plan possible.

Your doctor has many techniques that can be used to help relieve pain and restore proper function. Manual manipulation makes sure each joint is aligned. Trigger-point therapy restores natural joint movement.He or she will also likely suggest specific exercises to increase strength and flexibility of affected area.

Schedule Your Appointment Today
Contact us today and schedule an appointment with SpinePlus Chiropractic.