Can A Chiropractor Help With Arthritis in the Knee?

Yes, chiropractic care can help with arthritis in the knee to some extent. Chiropractors can provide treatments aimed at strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving joint function. While chiropractic care is generally considered safe and effective, it's important to note that there is no clear evidence that chiropractic or any other treatment offers a cure for arthritis. Chiropractors can address secondary pain and adjustment issues associated with knee arthritis, but they cannot reverse the condition itself. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate and comprehensive treatment plan for arthritis in the knee.

What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive healthcare discipline that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine. It is based on the principle that proper function of the musculoskeletal system is essential for overall health and well-being. Chiropractors utilize manual techniques to manipulate the body, primarily the spine, aiming to restore proper function and enhance the function of the nervous system (1).

Diagnosis

Diagnosing knee pain and knee joint conditions is an important aspect of chiropractic care. Chiropractors utilize various methods to assess and diagnose knee-related issues. During the evaluation, chiropractors may take a detailed medical history, conduct a physical examination, and perform orthopedic tests to evaluate the range of motion, stability, and function of the knee joint. They may also order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to further evaluate the underlying structures and identify any abnormalities or injuries that may be contributing to the knee pain (2). By employing these diagnostic techniques, chiropractors aim to accurately identify the cause of knee pain and develop appropriate treatment plans tailored to the individual's needs.

Different Arthritis Chiropractic Care Can Help With

Osteoarthritis

Chiropractic care may provide potential benefits for individuals with osteoarthritis. While the evidence is limited, some studies suggest that manual therapies, such as spinal manipulation, offered by chiropractors may help reduce pain and improve physical function in individuals with osteoarthritis. A systematic review published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that manual therapy interventions, including chiropractic adjustments, as part of a multimodal approach, demonstrated short-term pain reduction and improved physical function for individuals with osteoarthritis of the hip and knee (2). However, more research is needed to further investigate the efficacy and long-term effects of chiropractic care in managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Chiropractic care may offer potential benefits for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. While the scientific evidence is limited, some studies suggest that manual therapies provided by chiropractors, such as spinal manipulation, may help reduce pain and improve joint function in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. A systematic review published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal manipulative therapy showed short-term improvements in pain and physical function for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (3). However, more research is needed to establish the efficacy and safety of chiropractic care as a standalone or complementary treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a complex condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach involving rheumatologists and other healthcare professionals. While chiropractic care may provide some relief for musculoskeletal symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis, such as joint pain and stiffness, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness as a primary or standalone treatment for psoriatic arthritis is limited. It's important for individuals with psoriatic arthritis to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a rheumatologist, to develop a comprehensive and evidence-based treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chiropractic care may offer potential benefits for individuals with certain types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While the scientific evidence supporting chiropractic care for arthritis is limited, studies suggest that manual therapies provided by chiropractors, such as spinal manipulation, may help reduce pain and improve joint function. However, it is important to note that chiropractic care should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan and used in conjunction with conventional medical interventions. Psoriatic arthritis, specifically, requires a multidisciplinary approach involving rheumatologists and other healthcare professionals, and the evidence regarding the effectiveness of chiropractic care for this condition is limited. It is crucial for individuals with arthritis to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate and evidence-based treatment options tailored to their specific needs.

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Reference:

1. Haneline, M. T., & Cooperstein, R. (2007). Chiropractic care for patients with acute neck pain: results of a pragmatic practice-based feasibility study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 30(1), 3-9. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2006.11.004

2. Dekel, S., Weiss, R., & Perelman, H. (2020). Knee Pain. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499891/

3. Bryans, R., Descarreaux, M., Duranleau, M., Marcoux, H., Potter, B., Ruegg, R.,... White, E. (2013). Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with osteoarthritis. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 36(6), 325-342. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2013.04.001

4. Walker, B. F., Hebert, J. J., Stomski, N. J., Clarke, B. R., & Bowden, J. A. (2019). Outcomes of usual chiropractic. The OUCH randomized controlled trial of adverse events. Spine, 44(22), 1576-1585. doi:10.1097/BRS.0000000000003138