Have you ever woken up in the morning and felt immediate, sharp pain in your joints? Have you struggled to get out of bed or even make a fist because of how sore and stiff your hands were? If so, you have likely experienced the frustrating symptoms of arthritis. Arthritis is a common joint disease that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. Understanding this condition can lead to better management and arthritis treatment and improved quality of life.
This comprehensive guide will help people suffering from arthritis understand the basics of arthritis so that they can make an informed decision about their health.
What Is Arthritis?
The word “arthritis” is taken from the Greek arthron, meaning “joint,” and the Latin word itis, meaning “inflammation.” Thus, it quite literally means “joint inflammation.”
Arthritis is not a single disease. It is an informal term for a group of over 100 diseases that affect joints.
Here are some of the most common types:
- Osteoarthritis: The most prevalent form, this is a degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of cartilage.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: A chronic inflammatory disorder that typically affects the small joints in your hands and feet.
- Gout: A form of arthritis characterized by painful inflammation, mostly caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: A type of arthritis that affects the spine.
- Juvenile Arthritis: An umbrella term for various types of arthritis in children.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: This type of arthritis commonly occurs in some people with psoriasis, a condition characterized by red patches of skin topped with silvery scales.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (Lupus): An autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain.
Each type has unique features, but all types share a common symptom of joint pain and inflammation.
The Main Causes of Arthritis
Arthritis can be triggered by various factors depending on the type. Here’s a closer look at some of the primary causes of different types of arthritis:
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common form of arthritis, often associated with aging. Over time, the cartilage cushioning the ends of your bones where they form a joint can wear down due to years of use. This wear and tear leads to bone rubbing against bone, causing the characteristic pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis.
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood, a condition known as hyperuricemia. When there’s too much uric acid, it can form sharp, needle-like crystals in the joint, leading to severe pain and swelling, typically in the big toe.
Autoimmune Arthritis (including Rheumatoid Arthritis)
Some forms of arthritis result from the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s own tissues. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system targets the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and, over time, potential joint damage.
Viral Arthritis
Certain viral infections can trigger arthritis by inflaming the joints. Even the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been linked to cases of viral arthritis.
Idiopathic Arthritis
In some instances, arthritis can occur without a clear cause or trigger. This type of arthritis is referred to as idiopathic arthritis. Despite the unknown cause, it still results in joint inflammation and discomfort.
Arthritis Symptoms and Diagnosis
Understanding the symptoms of arthritis can help in early diagnosis and prompt treatment. The most common symptoms include:
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Decreased range of motion
These arthritis symptoms can come and go and vary in severity. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should visit your doctor. The diagnosis of arthritis may involve a physical exam, lab tests, imaging, or, sometimes, a joint analysis.
Arthritis Treatment and Management
Arthritis treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving joint function. It may include a combination of medication, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery. Here are common treatments:
Medication
Medications can help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further joint damage. Over-the-counter options include acetaminophen, while prescription drugs for arthritis range from painkillers to biologics.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy often starts with gentle exercises to improve joint flexibility and incorporates strength training to support the joint structure. Therapy can also include heat or cold therapy to ease joint pain.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Joint replacement surgery is a common surgical treatment to relieve pain and restore function in joints severely affected by arthritis.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
In addition to medical treatments, there are several things you can do at home to manage your arthritis:
- Manage your weight
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid joint injuries
- Eat a healthy diet
- Get plenty of sleep
- Assess your workstation and modify it, if necessary
Arthritis Treatment in Wellington, FL
Living with arthritis in Wellington can present unique challenges; however, understanding the disease and its management options can make a significant difference. Remember, you’re not alone; your primary care provider can help you navigate this journey.
At Advanced Medical Clinic, our highly trained and experienced primary care provider is committed to offering comprehensive management of a wide range of chronic health conditions, including arthritis.
We believe in continuity of care and will see you through every step of your treatment journey, from initial consultation to follow-up care. If necessary, we’ll connect you with top specialists and collaborate with them to ensure your treatment remains consistent and coordinated.
For more information about arthritis in Wellington or to schedule a consultation, reach out to us today at (561) 434-1935 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
