Can a Chiropractor Help With Arthritis: Science vs. Myths

Despite growing research, many persistent myths still shape how people view chiropractic care, especially for arthritis. Let’s clear them up one by one.

Myth #1: Chiropractic Is Only for Back Pain

The Facts:

Chiropractors are widely recognized for treating back and neck pain but that’s just the beginning. Chiropractic training covers the full musculoskeletal system, including the joints, muscles, and connective tissue throughout the body.

This means chiropractors can help patients manage arthritis-related pain in areas like the knees, hips, shoulders, hands, and feet. By restoring proper alignment and motion, chiropractic care can ease joint strain, reduce stiffness, and support mobility in more than just the spine.

Professional Guidelines:

The American College of Physicians recommends spinal manipulation therapy as a part of first-line, non-drug treatment for chronic musculoskeletal pain. Chiropractors are specifically trained in this technique and apply it safely and effectively beyond the spine.

Myth #2: Chiropractic Will Worsen Arthritic Joints

The Facts:

This is a common fear but a misinformed one. Chiropractors do not “crack” joints indiscriminately. For patients with arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, chiropractors often use gentle, low-force techniques that focus on joint mobilization rather than aggressive adjustments.

These techniques are tailored to reduce pain and stiffness without placing stress on sensitive or inflamed joints. In fact, properly applied chiropractic care may help preserve joint function and delay further degeneration by improving movement and reducing compensatory stress on other areas.

Professional Guidelines:

The Arthritis Foundation has stated that chiropractic care is generally safe for individuals with osteoarthritis. The key is individualized care based on a proper assessment, which is exactly what trained chiropractors do before starting any treatment.

Myth #3: Chiropractic Doesn’t Help with Inflammation

The Facts:

While chiropractors don’t prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or directly treat autoimmune processes like rheumatoid arthritis, they do help reduce one major contributor to inflammation: mechanical stress.

Misalignment, poor posture, and restricted joint motion can all place excessive strain on surrounding tissues, triggering localized inflammation. Chiropractic adjustments help restore normal joint function and balance, which may in turn reduce the body’s need to respond with inflammation.

Many patients report fewer flare-ups and less discomfort after consistent chiropractic care—not because it “cures” inflammation, but because it helps the body move and function better overall.

Professional Guidelines:

• The Arthritis Foundation states that chiropractic care, particularly spinal manipulation and mobilization, may be a safe and effective option for patients with osteoarthritis and can complement traditional treatment approaches.
  
• Clinical guidelines from the American College of Physicians (ACP) and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) include spinal manipulation as part of conservative management for chronic musculoskeletal pain—often involving inflammatory components.
  
• A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that patients receiving spinal manipulation therapy showed reductions in markers of inflammation and reported decreased pain intensity compared to control groups.

Myth #4: Chiropractic Isn’t Backed by Science

The Facts:

This outdated belief doesn’t hold up under modern research. There is a growing body of evidence showing that chiropractic care—particularly spinal manipulation and mobilization—can improve pain, range of motion, and overall function in patients with osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint issues.

Studies published in peer-reviewed journals such as Spine, JMPT (Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics), and The Lancet have highlighted the benefits of chiropractic techniques for managing chronic pain and improving quality of life.

Chiropractic care is also recommended in many clinical guidelines for conservative arthritis management, particularly when surgery or medications are not ideal.

Professional Guidelines:

• The American College of Physicians (ACP)
  The ACP recommends spinal manipulation as a first-line treatment for chronic low back pain, especially before considering medications. These guidelines are based on comprehensive reviews of clinical studies showing its effectiveness and safety for musculoskeletal pain, including degenerative joint conditions like osteoarthritis.
  
• The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
  The NCCIH recognizes spinal manipulation as a safe and effective approach for managing certain types of chronic pain, especially when performed by licensed healthcare providers such as chiropractors.
  
• The Arthritis Foundation
  The Foundation acknowledges that many people with osteoarthritis benefit from chiropractic care. They recommend it as a potential component of a conservative care plan for OA, particularly when patients are seeking drug-free options to manage joint pain and improve function.
  
• The UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
  NICE guidelines support manual therapy—including spinal manipulation—as part of a treatment plan for persistent low back pain and joint issues, reinforcing chiropractic’s role in evidence-based care.

Myth #5: Once You Start, You’re Stuck Forever

The Facts:

This myth comes from the misconception that chiropractic care is addictive or somehow dependent. In reality, chiropractic care is highly individualized. Some patients come in for a few sessions to manage an acute issue, feel better, and move on. Others choose to continue care periodically to support long-term mobility, prevent flare-ups, or manage chronic conditions like arthritis.

Just like going to the gym or eating healthy, continued care is often a personal choice to maintain results—not a requirement. At Crist Chiropractic, we build treatment plans around your goals, not a cookie-cutter timeline. You stay in control of your care every step of the way.

Professional Guidelines:

• American Chiropractic Association (ACA):
  The ACA emphasizes that chiropractic care should be patient-centered and evidence-informed. Care frequency and duration are based on individual needs and goals—not a predetermined schedule. Their stance supports the idea that ongoing care is a personal health choice, not a requirement.
  
• Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) from the Council on Chiropractic Guidelines and Practice Parameters (CCGPP):
  These guidelines promote a phased approach to care:
  
  1. Acute/Relief Phase
     
  2. Rehabilitative Phase
     
  3. Wellness or Maintenance Phase (optional)
     Patients transition between these phases based on clinical improvement and personal preference.
     
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH):
  NCCIH encourages using chiropractic care for symptom management and functional improvement, with treatment duration and frequency tailored to the condition being addressed—especially when used in conjunction with other therapies like physical therapy or medication.
  

Can a Chiropractor Help With Arthritis? What the Science Says for Section 2

Chiropractic care isn’t about quick fixes or one-size-fits-all treatments. It’s a science-backed approach rooted in biomechanics, neurology, and anatomy. When applied properly, chiropractic care can reduce pain, improve joint function, and help you move better—especially if you’re managing arthritis.

What the Evidence Says

Research into chiropractic care and arthritis has grown steadily over the last two decades, especially in relation to osteoarthritis. While chiropractic doesn’t cure arthritis, studies show it can effectively manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.

Osteoarthritis (OA):

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, often resulting from wear and tear over time. It typically affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.

Chiropractic care has shown consistent benefits for OA, particularly in improving mobility and reducing stiffness. A combination of spinal adjustments, mobilization, and muscle work can help patients regain comfort and function without relying solely on medication.

A 2020 systematic review in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal manipulation therapy significantly improved pain and physical function in patients with osteoarthritis. These results highlight chiropractic’s potential as a non-invasive, drug-free option for long-term arthritis care.

Rheumatoid & Inflammatory Arthritis:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune forms of arthritis (like psoriatic arthritis or lupus-related arthritis) require a more cautious and collaborative approach.

Chiropractic adjustments are not recommended during active flare-ups, when joints are inflamed and sensitive. However, between flare-ups, gentle chiropractic care—including soft tissue therapy, mobilization, and movement education—may help reduce joint tension and improve quality of life.

Importantly, chiropractors often work alongside rheumatologists to ensure patients receive safe, coordinated care that supports their overall treatment goals.

What Chiropractic Actually Does

So what does a chiropractor really do for someone with arthritis? It’s more than just “popping” joints. Chiropractic care includes a variety of techniques designed to support movement, reduce stress on joints, and promote natural healing.

Spinal & Joint Adjustments:

These are targeted, controlled movements applied to specific joints to improve alignment and restore range of motion. For patients with arthritis, chiropractors often use low-force techniques like Activator instruments or drop tables—designed to move the joint safely without unnecessary pressure.

By restoring alignment, adjustments reduce compensation patterns that can worsen joint stress over time. They also help with nerve function, which can influence how pain is processed in the body.

👉 Learn more about our Chiropractic Adjustments

Soft Tissue Therapy:

Arthritis doesn’t just affect the joints—it impacts the muscles and fascia around them too. When joints become painful, surrounding muscles often tighten or spasm to protect the area. This leads to even more stiffness and restricted movement.

Chiropractors use hands-on techniques like myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization to relax tight muscles and improve circulation. This not only eases discomfort but helps the joints move more freely.

Stretching & Rehab Exercises:

Chiropractors frequently prescribe simple, safe stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to each patient’s condition. These exercises are designed to:

• Improve flexibility in arthritic joints
  
• Strengthen surrounding muscles for better support
  
• Prevent stiffness and instability
  

With consistent effort, these exercises can delay progression of joint damage and reduce flare-ups. Rehab is especially helpful for patients with arthritis in the knees, hips, and shoulders.

Lifestyle Guidance:

Small daily habits can make a big difference when you have arthritis. Chiropractors help guide patients on:

• Postural corrections to reduce pressure on joints
  
• Sleep positioning that supports the spine and minimizes stiffness
  
• Movement modifications for work, driving, exercise, and daily routines
  

This whole-person approach empowers patients to take control of their arthritis care—without relying entirely on pills or procedures.

👉 Learn more about our Pain Management Techniques

Can a Chiropractor Diagnose Arthritis?

Yes…and no.
Chiropractors are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of arthritis and play a key role in early detection and conservative management. But when it comes to making an official medical diagnosis—especially for complex inflammatory conditions—collaboration with a medical doctor or rheumatologist is often necessary.

What Chiropractors Can Do

At Crist Chiropractic, we begin every evaluation with a thorough screening process to identify whether arthritis may be contributing to your pain, stiffness, or limited mobility.

Here’s how chiropractors assess for arthritis:

• Detailed Health History:
  We’ll ask when your pain started, what makes it worse or better, whether stiffness is worse in the morning or after activity, and whether there’s any family history of arthritis or autoimmune conditions.
  
• Orthopedic & Neurological Examination:
  We assess joint movement, swelling, and tenderness. Special orthopedic tests help us identify if the joint is inflamed, restricted, or compensating for other dysfunctions.
  
• Posture & Gait Assessment:
  Sometimes arthritis-related changes are first seen in how a person walks, stands, or distributes weight.
  
• Range of Motion Testing:
  We check how freely your joints move—and where they’re restricted or painful.
  
• On-Site or Referred Imaging (like X-rays):
  When needed, we use or refer for diagnostic imaging to confirm structural changes like joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or degeneration.
  

What Chiropractors Can’t Do Alone

If we suspect inflammatory or autoimmune arthritis—like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis, or lupus-related arthritis—we’ll refer you to your primary care physician or a rheumatologist for bloodwork, further imaging, and medical diagnosis.

That’s because these types of arthritis go beyond the joints. They can affect internal organs, immune function, and overall systemic health—and they often require medication or specialized co-management.

How We Work Together for the Best Results

At Crist Chiropractic, we don’t operate in a silo. If your case requires medical support, we collaborate with local healthcare providers to ensure you get the most accurate diagnosis and the safest, most effective treatment plan.

This integrated approach helps us:

• Avoid unnecessary delays in your care
  
• Reduce risks during flare-ups
  
• Create a custom treatment plan that works with—not against—your body
  

Bottom line:
We can identify and manage many forms of arthritis but we’ll never hesitate to refer out if your condition calls for medical oversight.

Is Chiropractic Safe for Arthritis? What Patients Need to Know

Chiropractic care is generally very safe for osteoarthritis. In fact, many patients find it helps them reduce their reliance on medications and get back to moving freely.

Who Should Avoid Adjustments?

• People with active inflammatory arthritis flare-ups
  
• Patients with severe osteoporosis or bone instability
  
• Those with unexplained joint swelling or neurological symptoms
  

Real-World Success Story:

A 62-year-old patient with hip and knee OA couldn’t walk more than 10 minutes without pain. After five weeks of targeted adjustments and home exercise guidance, she resumed daily walks—pain-free and confident.

What Results Can You Expect?

• Week 1–4: Less stiffness, better joint movement
  
• Week 4–8: Noticeable pain relief, improved function
  
• Beyond 8 weeks: Ongoing maintenance to prevent flare-ups and slow degeneration
  

When to Escalate Care:

• No improvement after 6–8 weeks
  
• New symptoms like numbness or swelling
  
• Sudden worsening of joint pain
  

👉 Need more support for your condition? Visit our Back Pain Relief page.

Chiropractic vs. Medication, PT & Other Arthritis Care

Here’s how chiropractic compares to other common options:

Treatment	Typical Results	Risks/Side Effects	Cost/Insurance	Best For
Chiropractic	Improves mobility, reduces pain	Low, especially with gentle care	Often covered	OA, chronic stiffness
Medication	Fast relief	GI issues, dependency	Covered	Acute inflammation, pain spikes
Physical Therapy	Strengthens, re-educates	Minor soreness	Often covered	Post-surgery, weakness
Rheumatology	Inflammatory arthritis care	Immunosuppressive effects	May vary	RA, PsA, autoimmune types
Massage Therapy	Eases muscle tension	Rare	Out of pocket	Adjunct care for stress & tightness

When to Use a Mix

Blending chiropractic with PT, rheumatology, and lifestyle changes often brings the best results—especially for complex arthritis cases.

How to Choose the Right Blend for You

• Talk with your providers
  
• Start conservative
  
• Track progress and adjust as needed
  

At-Home Arthritis Relief & Prevention Toolkit

Staying mobile between visits is key. Here’s what we recommend:

Gentle Stretches

• Seated Knee-to-Chest Stretch – opens the hips and low back
  
• Cat-Cow Stretch – improves spine mobility
  
• Shoulder Rolls – great for tension relief and posture
  

Avoid these if: You’re having a flare-up, severe pain, or neurological symptoms.

Additional Relief Tools

• Heat for stiffness, cold for inflammation
  
• Joint supports or braces for added stability
  
• Anti-inflammatory diet: Eat more fatty fish, leafy greens, turmeric, and less processed food

Ready to Take the First Step Toward Relief?

If arthritis pain is slowing you down, chiropractic care might be the natural solution you’ve been searching for. Whether you’re dealing with stiffness, joint discomfort, or limited mobility, we’re here to help.

At Crist Chiropractic, we create personalized, hands-on treatment plans to help you move better and feel better—without drugs or surgery.

👉 Book Your Appointment Today
Let’s work together to support your joints, reduce pain, and restore your quality of life.

FAQs: Chiropractic & Arthritis

What is the most effective treatment for arthritis?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Conservative care, movement, and lifestyle changes often work best for osteoarthritis.

Can a chiropractor get rid of inflammation?

Not directly, but reducing joint stress and improving alignment can help the body manage inflammation more efficiently.

Is physical therapy or chiropractor better for arthritis? 

The truth is, it doesn’t have to be an either/or choice. Physical therapy and chiropractic care offer complementary benefits, and for many arthritis patients, combining both can lead to faster recovery and longer-lasting relief.

Both can help. PT focuses more on strength and movement retraining; chiropractic improves alignment and mobility.

What are the disadvantages of chiropractic?

As with any form of healthcare, chiropractic isn’t entirely risk-free. Though complications are rare, it’s important to understand potential downsides—especially if you have underlying conditions like severe osteoporosis, spinal instability, or active inflammation.

Rare risks include temporary soreness or, in rare cases, joint irritation. Chiropractic isn’t for everyone, but for many, it’s a safe, drug-free option.

Is massage good for arthritis?

Massage therapy can be a helpful complement to arthritis care, especially for relieving muscle tightness and improving circulation. It can reduce stress, ease tension around affected joints, and promote relaxation, all of which support better joint function and pain relief.

Yes, especially for muscle tension around arthritic joints. Avoid deep tissue massage during flare-ups.

What is the best exercise to reduce arthritis pain?

The best exercises for arthritis are those that keep you moving without putting extra stress on your joints. Gentle movement helps lubricate joints, strengthens the surrounding muscles, and prevents stiffness from setting in. The key is consistency and choosing exercises that you can comfortably sustain over time.

Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or light stretching can ease stiffness and improve function.

What is the quickest way to stop arthritis pain? 

When arthritis pain flares up, the goal is to calm inflammation quickly while protecting the joint. Immediate relief often comes from simple strategies like applying ice, using a brace, or taking short rest periods to reduce joint stress. But it’s just as important to think beyond the moment and build habits that reduce pain over time.

Short-term: cold packs and rest. Long-term: movement, weight control, and consistent conservative care.