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Arthritis

Conditions

About Arthritis

Arthritis is a group of conditions characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. It can affect people of all ages and often worsens with age.

Possible Causes of Arthritis (with descriptions)

Arthritis can have various causes, including:

  • Osteoarthritis: Also known as degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to joint pain and stiffness. Risk factors include aging, joint injuries, and obesity.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium (the lining of the joints), causing inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage. It often affects multiple joints symmetrically and can lead to deformities.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that develops in some people with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. It can affect the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as skin and nail changes.
  • Ankylosing Spondylitis: Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips. Over time, it can lead to fusion of the vertebrae and reduced spinal mobility.

Symptoms Linked to Arthritis

Common symptoms associated with arthritis include:

  • Joint pain
  • Joint stiffness
  • Swelling around the joints
  • Redness and warmth in the affected area
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Joint deformities (in advanced cases)

Diagnosing Arthritis

Diagnosing arthritis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, laboratory tests (e.g., blood tests, imaging studies), and sometimes joint aspiration (fluid removal) for analysis.

Treating Arthritis

Treatment for arthritis aims to reduce pain, inflammation, and joint damage, as well as improve joint function and overall quality of life. It may include:

  • Medications (e.g., pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, disease-modifying drugs)
  • Physical therapy and exercise
  • Weight management
  • Hot or cold therapy
  • Assistive devices (e.g., braces, splints)
  • Joint injections (e.g., corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid)
  • Surgery (e.g., joint replacement, arthroscopy)

Possible Treatments

Arthritis treatments offered by healthcare providers specializing in interventional pain management, rheumatology, and orthopedic surgery may include: