Every day, thousands of people are told that their pain is caused by arthritis and that it’s a consequence of aging. Many are left believing that because of their arthritis, they will be stuck in pain indefinitely, with little to no control over their condition. But here’s the truth: arthritis ≠ pain. Just because you’ve been diagnosed with arthritis doesn’t mean you’ll be in constant discomfort.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a term that refers to joint inflammation, and it’s often associated with the natural aging process. In fact, 100% of people will develop some form of arthritis as they get older—it’s just a sign that our joints, like all other tissues in the body, experience wear and tear over time. However, the misconception that arthritis automatically means chronic pain is not accurate.
Arthritis and Pain Are Not Synonymous
Several studies have shown that the presence of arthritis does not necessarily correlate with pain levels. A research paper published in the Journal of Rheumatology found that many individuals with significant arthritis changes on X-rays reported little to no pain. Conversely, others with mild arthritis sometimes experience considerable discomfort. This discrepancy shows that pain is often influenced by factors other than joint degeneration, such as muscle weakness, poor biomechanics, or lifestyle factors like inactivity.
A landmark study by the American College of Rheumatology further supports this. It revealed that even in advanced cases of arthritis, interventions that target improving joint function—such as physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and personalized exercise programs—can lead to a significant reduction in pain levels, even when the arthritic changes remain unchanged. This suggests that pain relief is possible even with arthritis.
So, What Causes the Pain?
If it’s not arthritis, what’s causing the pain? Often, the discomfort people experience is due to muscle imbalances, joint stiffness, or improper movement patterns that can be corrected. Pain can also be exacerbated by factors like stress, poor posture, or weight-bearing on the joints in ways that aggravate the tissues around them. When these underlying issues are addressed through a tailored treatment plan, many individuals find that their pain levels significantly decrease.
How to Manage Arthritis Effectively
Managing arthritis doesn’t have to be a hopeless endeavour. Here’s what you need to know:
- Improve Joint Function: A comprehensive treatment plan that includes regular movement, strength training, and mobility exercises can significantly reduce discomfort. Manual therapies such as chiropractic care, osteopathy, and even Traditional Chinese Medicine have been shown to improve joint function and alleviate pain.
- Personalized Plans: No two people are the same, and the same goes for their arthritis symptoms. What works for one person may not work for another. A plan that’s customized to your needs, addressing both your lifestyle and your specific physical issues, is key to overcoming the limitations arthritis might impose on you.
- Don’t Ignore Foot Health: Your feet play a crucial role in how your body moves. Poor foot biomechanics can lead to compensations in other parts of the body, which can exacerbate pain. Custom orthotics and a thorough foot assessment by a professional can help improve alignment and reduce stress on other joints, easing discomfort.
What the Research Shows
Research consistently highlights that people with arthritis who engage in an active treatment plan—including manual therapies, exercise, and appropriate lifestyle modifications—report far less pain than those who are inactive or solely rely on medication. For instance, a study published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage noted that regular exercise, paired with manual therapy, leads to better pain relief and improved joint function than medication alone. This is great news for those who want to take an active role in their arthritis management!
Don’t Let Arthritis Define Your Future
Arthritis is a normal part of aging, but it doesn’t have to mean a future filled with pain. With a well-rounded, individualized treatment plan, you can improve your joint function, reduce discomfort, and continue living an active and fulfilling life.
Our Clinic Can Help You Get Back on Track
At our clinic, we understand that managing arthritis and pain is not a one-size-fits-all approach. We offer manual osteopathy, chiropractic care, and Traditional Chinese Medicine to improve joint health and relieve pain. Additionally, we offer custom-made orthotics to support your unique foot structure and address any biomechanical issues.
We are dedicated to helping residents in Toronto and the GTA, including Thornhill, North York, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and Markham. Don’t let arthritis hold you back – contact us today to create a personalized plan for pain relief and functional improvement.
