As our winter drags on, many Canadians are suffering with increased pain due to arthritis.  In fact, about 25% of people suffer from Arthritis, making it a large contributor to mobility and pain issues that we experience. The good news is that arthritis is something that can be managed, and in this article we will share strategies to manage this chronic condition.

1. Exercise

Exercise is the most effective way people can manage chronic pain due to arthritis.  When a joint or joints become arthritic they tend to stiffen and become inflamed when not in motion.  Our joints require motion to remain healthy and lubricated, so if your joints are worn out from arthritis, you are prone to problems if you remain sedentary.

It is important to find the right exercise for your body and this depends on where the arthritis is.  Understanding this and choosing appropriate exercises is the key to long term management.  Usually light, low impact aerobic exercise is best.  Yoga, pilates and other low impact exercises like swimming or walking are also a great way to start.  If you are unsure, it is best to seek the advice of a trained professional who can guide you towards finding the best workouts for your specific needs.

2. Nutrition. 

The foods we eat either contribute to increasing inflammation in our bodies or contribute to decreasing inflammation in our bodies.  Since arthritis is an inflammatory condition, those with it should be consuming an anti-inflammatory diet if they want to reduce or avoid pain associated with arthritis. This can be done by avoiding fried and processed foods as well as sugars and certain carbohydrates like white bread.  Instead try to consume foods that would have been around 100+.  Meats, fruits, vegetables and dairy products are all a great place to start.

If you think you could benefit from more guided advice on what to eat, consider booking a consultation with our holistic nutritionist.  Our nutritionist can help come up with a plan that will include creative recipes so that you are more likely to stay eating healthy long term.

3. See a Chiropractor 

It was mentioned earlier in the article that keeping your joints moving is the best thing for people with arthritis.  It is also the best way to avoid arthritis from developing in the first place.  This is exactly what chiropractic can help with.  A chiropractor’s job is to help your joints and muscles function properly and stay functioning and moving properly long term.  This is necessary for everyone, as we all experience stresses, strains and injuries at some point in our life.

Chiropractors can diagnose and treat arthritis with a variety of methods including spinal adjustments, muscle release work and exercise prescription.  They can guide you towards better health and keep you mobile so that you can enjoy life and all it has to offer. For more information about chiropractic care or to book a free consultation call us at 519.751.0728 or email pathwaystohopebrant@gmail.com

Dr. Spenser Dougley DC, FR, FRCms