Arthritis

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that causes joint pain and inflammation. It's estimated that over 50 million Americans are affected by some form of arthritis. While arthritis can affect any joint, it most commonly affects the hands, feet, shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips.

Types of Arthritis

The types of arthritis can be broken down into two broad categories: inflammatory and non-inflammatory. These can then be further broken down into specific conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and osteoarthritis.

• Inflammatory Arthritis – Inflammatory arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's own defense system attacks healthy tissue. Common types of inflammatory arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and lupus.
• Non-inflammatory Arthritis – Non-inflammatory arthritis may be caused by wear-and-tear or trauma to the joints. Common types include osteoarthritis, gout, and fibromyalgia.

Symptoms of Arthritis

The symptoms of arthritis depend on the type of arthritis and the severity of the condition. Generally speaking, the symptoms include pain and stiffness in joints, fatigue, and reduced motion. Some types of arthritis can also cause inflammation, redness, and swelling in the affected joints.

Treatment Options

Treatments for arthritis vary depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of the condition. Generally speaking, treatment can involve medications, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and if necessary, surgery. Some of the most commonly used medications to treat arthritis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic response modifiers (BRMs), and synvisc (injectable lubricants).

Conclusion

Arthritis is a common condition that can cause pain and inflammation in joints. There are different types of arthritis that are classified as either inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Symptoms vary depending on the type of arthritis and severity, but generally include pain and stiffness in joints, fatigue, and reduced motion. Treatment options depend on the type of arthritis and severity and can include medications, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and surgery.