Orthopedics - Arthritis

Orthopedic - Arthritis

Arthritis is usually a swelling caused to one or more joints. There are more than 100 types of arthritis that affect different joints in the body. Arthritis is commonly observed in patients above the age of 65 years; however, it can also develop in children, younger adults, and teens. Additionally, arthritis is more common among women than in men and in people who are overweight. 

To know more, you can consult an orthopedic doctor near you. Or you can visit an ortho hospital near you.

Which are the different types of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common types of arthritis. 

• Osteoarthritis - Osteoarthritis causes the bones to deteriorate. The cartilage in the joints gets severely damaged and the lining may get swollen and inflamed. 
• Rheumatoid arthritis - In this type of arthritis, the immune system of the body attacks the lining and becomes inflamed and swollen. Rheumatoid arthritis would eventually destroy the cartilage as well as the bone within the joint.  

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

The symptoms of arthritis depend on its type. Some of the common symptoms of arthritis include:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Redness
• Swelling
• Decreased range of motion

What causes arthritis?

• A reduction in the normal amount of cartilage tissue causes arthritis. Cartilage protects the joints by absorbing the shock that is created when moving and putting stress on the joints. 
• Normal wear and tear of the joints also cause arthritis, i.e. osteoarthritis. An infection to the joints exacerbates the natural breakdown of the cartilage tissue. 
• When the body’s immune system attacks the tissues of the body, arthritis is caused. Additionally, the soft tissue in the joints is attacked, which in turn produces a fluid that nourishes the cartilage and lubricates the joints. 

When do you need to see a doctor?

Arthritis involves pain, swelling, or inflammation of the joints. If you observe symptoms such as pain, stiffness, swelling, redness on the skin near the joints, and decreased movement or motion, you should immediately contact your doctor in order to avoid further risks or complications. 

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Tardeo, Mumbai.

Call 18605002244 to book an appointment.

What are the possible risk factors for arthritis?

Some of the common risk factors for arthritis include:

• Family history - Some of the types of arthritis run in families. Thus, you are at a higher risk of developing arthritis if your parents or siblings are suffering from the same.
• Age - The possibility of developing arthritis increases with growing age. People above the age of 65 years are more prone to be suffering from arthritis.
• Sex - Women are more susceptible to be diagnosed with arthritis than men.
• Previous injury - People who have previously injured their joints are more prone to be suffering from arthritis. 
• Obesity - Excess weight puts stress on the joints; especially knees, spine, and hips. Thus, obese people are at a higher risk of developing arthritis. 

What are the complications of arthritis?

Severe arthritis affects the arms and hands of an individual and would impact your daily activities. Additionally, arthritis due to weight can keep you away from walking comfortably and sitting in a straight posture. In some severe cases, the joints may lose their alignment and shape due to arthritis. 

How can we prevent arthritis?

Some lifestyle changes can help you prevent arthritis. Some of the changes that can help you to prevent arthritis are mentioned below:

• Weight loss
• Eating healthy diet
• Avoiding junk food
• Regular exercise
• Hot and ice packs
• Making use of assistive devices

How is arthritis treated?

The treatment of arthritis mainly focuses on relieving the symptoms and improving joint function. Some of the treatment options of arthritis are as follows:

• Medications - The medications for the treatment of arthritis would depend on the type of arthritis. However, some of the common medications prescribed are:
  • NSAIDs
  • Counterirritants
  • Steroids
  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
• Therapy - Physical therapy can prove to be a good treatment option for many types of arthritis. Exercises in physical therapy sessions can help improve the motion and strengthen the muscles of the joints. 
• Surgery - In severe cases of arthritis, surgery is recommended. Some of the types of surgeries suggested for arthritis are:
  • Joint repair surgery
  • Joint replacement surgery
  • Joint fusion surgery

Conclusion

Arthritis can be defined as tenderness or swelling of one or more joints. Arthritis is mostly observed among people above the age of 65 years. In arthritis, the most common symptoms are stiffness, joint pain, and swelling. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment of arthritis depends on the type of arthritis you are diagnosed with. Also, the treatment of arthritis focuses on reducing the symptoms and improving the quality of life.