Seeing a Chiropractor for Psoriatic Arthritis Pain Management

Medical treatment can only go so far when managing psoriatic arthritis and its partnering pain. Many of us who live with this chronic condition also turn to alternative therapies and complementary treatments. I have found myself down many a rabbit hole, desperate for a supplemental relief option that just might do the trick.

Understanding that no experience is the same, I still find myself inspired and gather ideas from what I am able to research. It is within this approach that I made the decision to go and see a chiropractor.

Considering seeing a chiropractor? Here are a few tips!

A chiropractor is trained to make sure your body is functioning as optimally as possible by using spinal manipulations to relieve pain in your joints and muscles.

Before seeing a chiropractor, it is of utmost importance to always make sure that your health and safety come first. So before we get to the benefits of seeing a chiropractor, I would like to expressly remind you of the following:

• Always check with your rheumatologist, if you have the all-clear to go for treatment
• Do not go when your psoriatic arthritis is in a flare; this can cause injury to your body.
• Do not schedule an adjustment if you are experiencing any swelling.
• Make sure you go to a chiropractor that is well-versed in psoriatic arthritis specifically.
• Always give full medical disclosure to your chiropractor.

Many patients seek chiropractic care for symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, lack of energy, digestive problems, muscle aches, numbness, and tingling. All of these issues can be addressed with chiropractic care.

What your first chiropractor visit may look like...

Your first visit to the chiropractor will begin with an assessment. You will likely be given a list of health questions to complete. Your chiropractor may also want to know if you have a history of migraines and your sleeping patterns, your diet and if you are physically active.

Depending on your type of arthritis, the chiropractor may provide gentle manipulation to increase the range of motion and reduce muscle spasms.

The role chiropractic care has played in my own PsA management

Winters are tough for me. My psoriatic arthritis is usually mid-flare, and my joints feel so tight that they could buckle from the pressure. The daily pain is unreal. When winter is at its end, I make an appointment with my trusty chiropractor, and my body almost exhales with relief. After a few appointments, I feel more fluid.

With the pain relief and easier motion, my body's mobility improves. The realignment of my joints feels like everything has clicked into place, and my body tells me that my bones, tendons, and joints just fit better than they did before.

What comes after a chiropractor appointment?

Personally, my chiropractor will often give me stretches and mobility exercises post-appointment in an effort to keep my body active and fluid. This is especially important in between appointments. We only get out what we put in.

Most people experience immediate relief and, over time, see their health improve. Your chiropractor can provide you with valuable information, such as good posture when standing, sleeping, and sitting at a desk. Some people need to go more often, and others do not so much. 

I would love to hear from you and your experience with your PSA and chiropractor.