Comparisons between the inner world and the outer world have been
frequently drawn by philosophers, nature writers, and visual artists.
For example, "seeing the universe in a grain of sand" is a well-known
aphorism. The number of neurons in your brain has been compared to the
number of stars in the Milky Way. The golden ratio (1.618), derived from
the Fibonacci sequence, is demonstrated in flower petals, pine cones,
nautilus shells, and human DNA. In this same manner, another comparison
may be made between wildfires and our internal system of fires known as
inflammatory processes.
These inflammatory processes are unleashed by the immune system in
response to a real or perceived attack by foreign cells and foreign
proteins. This response includes destroying cells that are recognized as
"non-self," such as microbes but including malignant cells and virus
infected cells. Additionally, the immune response involves the release
of cell signaling molecules (cytokines) that facilitate cell-to-cell
communication. This signaling network modulates the immune response,
heightening or diminishing the course of inflammation as needed.
Problematically, certain inflammatory processes may be extended
unnecessarily or inappropriately, as in anaphylactic shock. Such
out-of-control inflammation may be likened to destructive forest
wildfires.
Inflammatory processes may also affect joints of the neck, low back,
hip, knee, and ankle. Inflammation of a joint is termed osteoarthritis, a
painful disorder which also may cause redness, increased warmth, and
swelling. Joints affected by osteoarthritis tend to develop limited
mobility and use of these structures may become quite difficult over
time owing to pain and decreased motion.
Osteoarthritis is not necessarily abnormal and may occur as a result
of daily physiological weight-bearing forces. But, as osteoarthritis may
cause pain and debility, we could and should employ preventive measures
to counter these degenerative processes (processes involving breakdown
of tissues). One of the most effective proactive and protective methods
to prevent or delay the onset of osteoarthritis is regular vigorous
exercise. Physical activities including walking, running, biking, and
strength training teach the body how to handle mechanical loads. By
training the musculoskeletal system and other connective tissues,
physical activity helps to build up "resistance," in a sense, to the
degenerative forces of osteoarthritis. In this way, regular vigorous
physical activity helps us to continue to be healthy and well over the
course of a lifetime.
Additionally, regular chiropractic care supports our long-range goals
of vibrant good health. Regular chiropractic care helps our nerve
system to be free of interference and function at peak levels of
performance, and helps to optimize our spinal mechanics. By providing
these benefits, regular chiropractic care helps us get the most out of
the time we spend exercising and achieve greater good health today and
into the future.
- Hügle T, Geurts J: What drives osteoarthritis?-synovial versus
subchondral bone pathology. Rheumatology (Oxford) 56(9):1461-1471, 2017
- Lambova S: Exercise programmes for osteoarthritis with different
localization. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2017 Aug 10. doi:
10.2174/1573397113666170810153808. [Epub ahead of print]
- Kirihara RA, et al: Intensity, duration and type of physical
activity required to improve function in knee osteoarthritis. Acta Ortop
Bras 25(1):25-29, 2017
