Orthopaedics - Arthritis

Orthopedic - Arthritis

Arthritis is a joint inflammation disorder that can affect one or multiple joints. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis. Each of them has its causes and treatment. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis are the two most common types.

Arthritis symptoms usually develop over time. However, they also tend to disappear suddenly. It is commonly seen in people over 65 years. But it can also develop in young adults, teens and children.

Accurate and earlier diagnosis will help in preventing disability and irreversible damage from the joint disease.

What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

The most common symptoms of arthritis are,

• Stiffness
• Joint pain
• Swelling

Your range of motion might also decrease with arthritis, and you might notice redness of your skin around the joint. In most cases, people with arthritis problems see the symptoms worsening early in the morning, just after they wake up.

In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, you might experience loss of appetite or feel tired.Severe RA might lead to joint deformity when left untreated.

What are the Causes of Arthritis?/h2>

The flexible connective tissue in a joint is called the cartilage. This absorbs pressure and shock to protect the joints when you put stress on them and move. A reduction in the normal amount of cartilage tissue in the joint can lead to some forms of arthritis.

Regular wear and tear can lead to osteoarthritis. An injury or infection can aggravate the usual cartilage tissue breakdown. The risk of developing osteoarthritis might be higher when you have a family history of the disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis is another common form of arthritis. This is an autoimmune disorder. This happens when the immune system of the body attacks the body’s tissue. This can affect the soft tissue in the joint called synovium, producing a fluid that lubricates the joint and nourishes the cartilage.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease of the synovium that will destroy a joint. This will eventually lead to the destruction of both cartilage and bone inside the joint. The exact cause of the attacks on the immune system is unknown. However, scientists have discovered genetic markers, which increase the risk of developing RA fivefold.

When Do You Need to See a Doctor?

When you experience swelling, pain or stiffness in one or more joints for more than three days, you should contact the best orthopedic specialist in Karol Bagh.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Karol Bagh, New Delhi.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

What are the Treatment Options for Arthritis?

The primary aim of the treatment is to reduce the pain you are experiencing and prevent additional damage to your joints. You can get in touch with an orthopedic specialist in Delhi who will tell you what works best to control the pain. Many people find ice packs and heating pads to be soothing. Other people use assistive devices, such as walkers or canes. This takes the pressure off your painful joints.

Improving joint function is also essential. A doctor might even prescribe a combination of the treatment methods for achieving the best result.

Doctors often suggest different types of medication for arthritis. These are:

• Analgesics
• Capsaicin or menthol
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Another option is surgery to replace the joint. This form of surgery is primarily performed for replacing knees and hips. In case your arthritis is most severe in your wrists or fingers, your doctor might perform a joint fusion. During the process, the ends of the bones are locked and joined together until they heal to become one.
An orthopedic doctor in Delhi might also suggest physical therapy. This can help in strengthening the bones around the joints.

Conclusion

While arthritis doesn’t have any cure, adequate treatment can essentially reduce your symptoms. Apart from medical treatments, you should also make some lifestyle changes that will help in managing arthritis.