Understanding Arthritis: Types, Symptoms, and How Chiropractic Can Help

Arthritis is one of the most common chronic health conditions in Canada, affecting millions of people of all ages. While it’s often thought of as a disease that comes with age, arthritis can develop at any stage of life. Understanding the condition is the first step toward managing it — and living well with healthy, mobile joints.

Two Main Types of Arthritis

The two most common forms are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

• Osteoarthritis is a “wear-and-tear” condition where cartilage — the smooth, cushioning material between bones — gradually breaks down. Without that cushioning, bones can rub together, leading to stiffness, pain, and swelling. OA is most common in weight-bearing joints like knees, hips, and the spine.

  
  

• Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissue, causing inflammation, pain, and sometimes deformity. RA can affect multiple joints at once and may flare up in cycles.

  
  

Common Symptoms

Regardless of type, arthritis symptoms can include:

• Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity

• Pain that worsens with movement or activity

• Swelling and warmth around the joint

• Reduced range of motion

These symptoms can make everyday activities — walking, bending, gardening — much harder.

How Chiropractic Can Help

Chiropractic focuses on improving joint alignment and movement. When joints are restricted or misaligned, it places additional stress on surrounding muscles, ligaments, and cartilage. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can:

• Reduce joint restrictions to improve range of motion

• Relieve muscle tension that adds to joint pain

• Support proper posture and biomechanics to reduce wear and tear

• Enhance circulation and nerve function to promote healing

While chiropractic cannot reverse cartilage loss, it can help manage symptoms, improve mobility, and support an active lifestyle. Many patients find that regular adjustments allow them to keep doing the activities they love.

Living Well with Arthritis

A holistic approach works best — combining chiropractic with regular gentle exercise, anti-inflammatory nutrition, and stress management can make a big difference. If you’re experiencing joint pain or stiffness, you don’t have to wait until it becomes severe. Early care can help protect joint health and slow the progression of arthritis.

If arthritis is keeping you from moving comfortably, let’s work together to find a care plan that helps you stay active and independent.