There are actually over 100 different types of diseases and conditions which are classified as arthritic. The most common of these is osteoarthritis which affects 27 million Americans alone. Coming in a close second are rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and gout. The word arthritis actually means inflammation in a joint. This inflammation is a natural reaction to use or injury and will often includes swelling, pain and stiffness.
In some cases, or types of arthritis, this inflammation also produces degeneration and deformity in the joint. Inside a joint where two or more bones come together there is a covering with smooth spongy material called cartilage. This cartilage allows the joints to move without pain. There is also a slippery fluid called synovial fluid that also helps to reduce friction.
When arthritis happens in a joint it becomes inflamed, painful, stiff and sometimes individuals have difficulty moving. Arthritis can also affect other parts of the body such as the skin, internal organs and eyes.
The exact cause may not be known for most of the different types of arthritis but researchers have identified several risk factors. A risk factor is the behavior or traits of an individual which increases their chance of developing the disease. Risk factors for arthritis include obesity (being overweight puts additional stress on the joints), age (the risk increases with age), gender (arthritis appears to occur more frequently in women than men), and work factors (repetitive movement, heavy lifting or frequent injury can lead to arthritic changes). (1)
Arthritis affects approximately 70 million Americans. Or, put another way, it affects approximately 1 out of every three people. It is a major cause of lost work and disability. It can affect people of all ages but is most common older adults. Diagnosis is often accomplished through thorough medical evaluation and history, physical exam, blood tests and imaging studies.
The goal of treatment is to provide relief from pain, increased mobility in the joints and increased strain around the joints. Physicians may recommend medication, hot or cold compresses, exercise, joint protection or surgery. With early diagnosis most types are managed well and pain and disability is minimized. Although it cannot be prevented there are steps which will help reduce your risk or prevent permanent joint damage. By maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, eating a healthy diet and protecting your joints at work you reduce your risk of developing arthritis and prevent major joint deformity.
References
(1) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Risk Factors
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