Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Although often associated with ageing, it can affect individuals of all ages, including young adults and teenagers. The term ‘arthritis’ refers to over 100 different joint-related conditions, with the most common types being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
The severity of arthritis can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that interferes with everyday life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatments is essential for managing this condition effectively and maintaining a good quality of life.
What Causes Arthritis?
The causes of arthritis differ depending on the type of arthritis that is present in the body. It is usually caused by inflammation of the joints, which may be a result of wear and tear, immune system disorders, infections, or injuries. Osteoarthritis is most commonly due to the gradual degeneration of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones. This type may occur as a person ages or after years of wear and tear or injury to a joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a different type of arthritis that is caused by an autoimmune disease. It is an autoimmune disease that develops when the body’s immune system targets the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and destruction of the joint. The cause is still not clear, but it may be hereditary and also due to some conditions in the environment. Other factors that may contribute to the development of specific types of arthritis include infections, obesity, and overuse of the joints.
Common Symptoms of Arthritis
Arthritis is a disease that has many types, and the symptoms may also differ depending on the type of arthritis, but there are some symptoms that are present in most forms of arthritis. The most common sign is joint pain, which is aggravated by activity or after a period of inactivity. Pain is usually felt in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
Some patients develop inflammation around the affected joints, and the skin over the joints may become red or sensitive to the touch. In the long run, arthritis leads to stiffness, which makes it challenging to climb stairs or turn the lid of a jar.
Rheumatoid arthritis is characterised by symptoms that affect both sides of the body and may also include fever, fatigue, and general weakness. It is different from osteoarthritis due to its symmetrical distribution and indicates an autoimmune systemic aetiology.
Treatment Options for Arthritis
Arthritis treatment aims at controlling the symptoms, decreasing inflammation, and minimising the impact on joint function. Although the condition is not always treatable, most patients can continue to live normal lives with the help of proper treatment.
A. Non-Surgical Treatments
Arthritis does not always require surgery and can be treated by other means in most instances. The non-surgical treatment for arthritis in Mumbai involves the use of drugs, changes in lifestyle, and physiotherapy. Flexibility is maintained through exercises, while a healthy weight does not exert pressure on the joints that are under pressure.
Physical therapy can help to build up the muscles and bones, and there are drugs like NSAIDs that may be administered to reduce pain. In autoimmune types such as rheumatoid arthritis, DMARDs and biologic agents may be used to reduce the immune response and further damage to the joints.
B. Surgical Options
In cases where joint damage is extensive and symptoms cannot be managed through other means, surgery may be an option. In such cases, surgical interventions such as joint replacement or arthroscopy are performed to regain the functionality of the joint. People look for advanced knee pain treatment in Mumbai, where joint-conserving or knee-replacement surgeries are popular and beneficial.
Final Thoughts
Arthritis is a complicated disease that can be chronic and, therefore, should be diagnosed as early as possible and treated according to the individual case. It is only when the causes of arthritis are known, the signs and symptoms are identified, and the available treatment options are considered that people can manage their joint conditions and the effects of arthritis in their lives. In this case, early intervention through non-surgical treatments or even invasive procedures can go a long way in improving the quality of life in the long run.
