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Arthritis Facts and Pain Relief
Jan
Arthritis, a joint disease, is at the top of the list of the most common chronic illness in the world. It does not discriminate based on race, sex, or age although it is more common among the older demographic. Over 50 million adults and 300 thousand children suffer from some form of arthritis, and it is the leading reason for disability in the US. Given all this, it is unfortunate that while it is a very common condition, it is often misunderstood. Arthritis is not a single disease but more of a catch-all for over 100 types of joint and related problems. These problems have different attributes, prognosis, treatments, and complications. The unifying factor is that the joints, cartilage, tendons, muscles, and ligaments are affected, although, because arthritis is a rheumatic disease, it may affect other internal organs as well, especially if the condition is not treated properly. The main symptom of arthritis is pain in the joints however, there are other arthritis symptoms as well – joint stiffness, swelling, redness, tenderness, warmth, limping, locking and decreased range of motion, and finally weakness. All of these signs are mainly the result of the inflammation of the joint, other sources are loss of cartilage and joint damage. The symptoms can be continuous or come and go, and the severity may range from mild annoyance to excruciating pain, all of this does not make it any easier to diagnose arthritis and its type. But one thing is for sure, it is a chronic disease that gets worse over time. While some arthritis is caused by injury, bacteria, or a virus infection, the main cause of arthritis is a genetic predisposition. There are a few main types of arthritis:
- Degenerative Arthritis – or osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. Here the cartilage wears away causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Inflammatory Arthritis – here the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints causing inflammation, joint erosion, and could even damage internal organs, and other body parts.
- Infectious Arthritis – arthritis caused by bacteria, virus or fungal infection. Causes inflammation that can lead to worse conditions.
- Metabolic Arthritis – buildup of excess uric acid in the joints, that the body naturally produces. Causes inflammation that can lead to worse conditions.
- Balancing life – physical activity and rest have to be in balance
- Cold and heat therapy – as with other injuries, this is a useful tool.
- Exercise – staying physically active is important.
- Diet – maintaining a healthy weight and a healthy diet is essential
- Build muscle strength – for the muscles around the affected joints, for added support
- Physical therapy – getting professional help, advice, and assistance is always recommended
- Getting help – using assistive devices
- Avoid harmful repetition – avoid excessive repetitive movements
