Can You See a Chiropractor if You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be challenging. As an autoimmune condition that causes chronic inflammation in the joints, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. If you’re looking for non-invasive, complementary approaches to manage symptoms, you may be wondering: Can you see a chiropractor if you have rheumatoid arthritis? The short answer is yes—with the right care plan and a skilled chiropractor, chiropractic care can be a safe and effective part of your overall treatment strategy.

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is different from osteoarthritis. While osteoarthritis results from wear and tear on the joints over time, RA is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. This leads to inflammation, swelling, and, over time, joint damage.

People with RA often experience:

• Joint pain and stiffness
• Swelling and redness
• Fatigue
• Limited range of motion

Since RA can impact multiple joints and sometimes organs, any complementary care should be tailored to the individual’s condition. That’s where chiropractic care comes in—with proper precautions.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe for People with Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Yes, under the right conditions. Seeing a chiropractor if you have rheumatoid arthritis can be beneficial—especially when your RA is in remission or managed with medication. However, during an active flare-up, direct joint manipulation should be avoided.

A skilled chiropractor will take a thorough medical history, assess your joint condition, and tailor your care plan accordingly. At Custom Chiropractor, we prioritize patient safety and customize every treatment based on individual needs.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Can you see a chiropractor if you have rheumatoid arthritis and expect real results? Many RA patients report the following benefits from chiropractic care:

• Reduced pain and muscle tension
• Improved posture and joint mobility
• Better alignment and body mechanics
• Relief from secondary symptoms like headaches or back pain

Additionally, chiropractic treatments can support nervous system function, improve circulation, and reduce stress levels, all of which can positively influence autoimmune conditions like RA.

Techniques Used by Chiropractors for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Chiropractors use a variety of gentle, non-invasive techniques to help individuals with RA. Here are three widely used methods available at Custom Chiropractor:

1. Graston Technique

The Graston Technique is an advanced form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. Stainless steel instruments are used to gently break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. For people with rheumatoid arthritis, this technique can help relieve chronic muscle tightness and inflammation in the surrounding tissues—without stressing the joints themselves.

2. Cox Flexion-Distraction

Cox Flexion-Distraction is a gentle, hands-on spinal manipulation that uses a specially designed table to stretch and decompress the spine. This is especially beneficial for RA patients with spinal involvement or joint sensitivity. It’s a safe and effective way to restore mobility and relieve nerve pressure without aggressive thrusts or twisting.

3. Active Release Technique (ART)

The Active Release Technique (ART) focuses on soft tissue structures such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. During ART sessions, the chiropractor applies pressure while the patient actively moves the affected area. This technique helps break up adhesions, improve flexibility, and reduce pain caused by overcompensation and chronic inflammation.

Precautions and Considerations

When asking “Can you see a chiropractor if you have rheumatoid arthritis?” it’s essential to consider the stage and severity of your condition. Chiropractic care should always complement—not replace—your rheumatologist’s treatment plan.

Here are a few precautions:

• Never undergo spinal manipulation during an acute flare-up
• Ensure your chiropractor is informed about your medical history and medications
• Work only with chiropractors experienced in treating autoimmune and inflammatory conditions

At Custom Chiropractor, our team works collaboratively with other healthcare providers to ensure your care is safe, effective, and fully integrated.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your first appointment will include a comprehensive consultation and exam. This may involve:

• Discussion of your RA history and current symptoms
• Range of motion tests
• Spinal and joint evaluation
• Soft tissue assessment

Based on the findings, a personalized treatment plan will be developed—always focused on minimizing joint stress and maximizing comfort. Techniques like Graston, Cox Flexion-Distraction, and Active Release will be considered based on your tolerance and goals.

Integrating Chiropractic with Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

Can you see a chiropractor if you have rheumatoid arthritis alongside medical treatment? Yes, and it can actually enhance your overall well-being. Chiropractic care often works best when integrated with physical therapy, medication, dietary changes, and stress management. The key is open communication between your chiropractor, rheumatologist, and primary care provider.

If you’re considering chiropractic treatment, schedule a consultation today to see how we can help you safely manage RA symptoms.

Conclusion

So, can you see a chiropractor if you have rheumatoid arthritis? Absolutely—with the right approach. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, medication-free option to ease pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life. At Custom Chiropractor, we’re here to support your journey with evidence-based techniques like Graston Technique, Cox Flexion-Distraction, and Active Release Technique—all tailored to your unique condition.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing RA for years, chiropractic care may be the missing piece to a more mobile, pain-free life.

Learn more about chiropractic care at Custom Chiropractor and find out if it’s the right fit for your RA management plan.