Arthritis is much more than just a debilitating pain. But what exactly is it? Well, it’s usually defined as inflammation and swelling in your bone joints. It is commonly observed to be affecting elderly people aged above 65 years however it is not uncommon to see children and youngsters affected by it.

Types of Arthritis

There are different types of arthritis but the two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear-and-tear of the cartilage- the hard, slippery coating on the ends of bones where the joints are formed. This breakdown of cartilage causes the bones to rub against each other, which causes pain and restricted movement.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the joint capsule- a tough membrane that encloses the joint parts. This lining around the joints becomes inflamed and swollen.

Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis

Early diagnosis is the key to seek proper medical treatment for any condition and arthritis is no different. The early symptoms of arthritis are easy to recognize and if your body is showing any of the following conditions then you must seek the right medical help immediately.

1. Pain: Arthritis pain can be constant or can be inconsistent. It may arise while moving or even at rest. Pain may occur in one part of the body or several parts.
2. Swelling: Some forms of arthritis cause the skin above the affected joint to swell and turn red feeling warmer to the touch. Swelling that persists for 3 days or longer or occurs frequently should prompt an immediate visit to the doctor.
3. Stiffness: This is a common arthritis symptom, especially after waking up in the morning or riding in a car for a long time or after sitting at a desk for a long. Morning stiffness that persists for more than an hour is a valid reason to suspect arthritis.
4. Difficulty moving a joint: It shouldn’t be painful or hard to move or get up from a chair or bed. If you feel joint pain while moving your arms or getting up from a chair or bed, and this occurs almost every time while you make any movement, it is time to talk to your doctor.

Arthritis Causes

The major causes of arthritis are:

• Age
• Wear and tear on joints
• Broken bone or injury
• Infection, usually by virus or bacteria
• An autoimmune disease

Diagnosis

Your experience with the arthritis symptoms will help the doctor pin down the extend and type of arthritis. Through the physical exam, the doctor will check your joints for any redness, swelling, and warmth.

Depending on the type of arthritis suspected, the doctor may suggest some of the tests:

• A laboratory test that includes analyzing blood, urine, and joint fluid to pinpoint the exact type of arthritis.
• Imaging tests like X-rays, CT-scan, MRIs, and ultrasound to detect problems within the joints.

Treatment

Arthritis treatment majorly focuses on improving joint function and relieving pain. The patient may require trying different treatments, or even a combined treatment plan to get relief from the painful condition. Treatment may include the following:

Medications: Medications used for treating arthritis may vary depending upon the type and severity of arthritis. It may include painkillers, counterirritants, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Corticosteroids, etc.

Therapy: Physical therapy may be helpful for few types of arthritis. Physical exercise can greatly improve the range of motion and also strengthen the muscles around the joints. In few cases, braces or splints can be just the right choice.

Surgery: If you are suffering from very severe arthritis and when conventional measures and treatment don’t work, doctors may suggest surgery. Surgery like joint repair, joint replacement, or joint fusion procedures is advised.

Arthritis is a painful condition that puts limitations on one’s ability to perform daily activities. Diagnosing arthritis early can help in preventing irreparable damage and disability.

Jehangir Specialty Hospital (JSH), Pune aims to provide top-class, evidence-based treatment for several orthopedic disorders. Our highly skilled team of orthopedic surgeons and rheumatologists combine their expertise in the areas of clinical research, patient care, and academics to provide the highest level of treatment to our patients to treat conditions from all types of articular pain from osteoarthritis, cartilage tear, muscle or bone injuries, to chronic muscle and joint pain conditions.