Arthritis is a condition that affects millions of people in the United States. It often leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, which can significantly impact a person’s daily life. This condition can also contribute to visible joint damage over time, altering the way t
he body moves and functions. Here is more information on this condition and treatment options:
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to inflammation of one or more joints in the body. There are more than 100 different types, each with unique characteristics and causes. The most common types include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis typically develops due to wear and tear on cartilage, which cushions the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint’s lining. Consulting a specialist helps with diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Arthritis?
The causes vary depending on the type. Osteoarthritis is often influenced by age, repetitive joint use, and injury to the area. Being overweight can increase the pressure on joints, particularly the knees, hips, and spine, leading to cartilage breakdown.
Rheumatoid arthritis occurs due to an autoimmune response that triggers inflammation in the joints. While the exact cause remains unknown, certain factors may contribute to its development. These include genetic, hormonal, and environmental.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms differ from person to person, but there are common signs to look out for. Many notice joint pain and tenderness, particularly after periods of inactivity or overuse. Stiffness, especially in the morning, is another frequent complaint among those with this condition.
Swelling around the joints is also common. The skin may sometimes appear red and feel warm to the touch. Arthritis can lead to reduced range of motion over time, causing difficulties in performing basic tasks.
How Is Arthritis and Joint Damage Connected?
This condition can lead to progressive joint damage if left unmanaged. This connection often depends on the type of arthritis present. In osteoarthritis, the wear and tear on cartilage eventually causes it to thin and break down. Without sufficient cartilage, bones may grind against one another, leading to deformity and changes in joint structure.
With rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system’s chronic attack on the joint lining creates inflammation that damages surrounding tissues. This may result in erosion of the bone and loss of joint alignment. Both forms, if not addressed, may lead to permanent changes in joint appearance and function.
How Is This Condition Treated?
Several treatment options help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of joint damage.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist guides individuals through tailored exercises to strengthen muscles around the joint and improve overall mobility.
- Injection Therapy: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Splinting or Bracing: Splints or braces can help support affected joints and limit excessive movement.
- Cold Packs and Paraffin Wax Dips: Applying a cold pack to inflamed joints may reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. Paraffin wax dips can soothe stiff joints and promote relaxation.
- Anti-inflammatory Medicines: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), available as over-the-counter or prescription options, are used to manage pain and inflammation associated with this condition.
- Immune-Altering Medicines: For autoimmune arthritis, medications are prescribed to control the immune system’s response and reduce inflammation over time.
- Surgical Procedures: Surgery may be recommended when damage is extensive and other treatments fail.
Learn More Today
Understanding the connection between this condition and joint damage can help manage the condition effectively. From physical therapy to medications, multiple ways exist to reduce symptoms and protect joint health. If you want to learn more about arthritis management, contact a healthcare professional.
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