Spotlight on Arthritis

Definition
 
Arthritis is a disease that causes pain and loss of movement of the joints. The word arthritis literally means joint inflammation.
 
Description of Arthritis
 
Arthritis affects the movements that we rely on for everyday activities. It is usually chronic. This means that it can last on and off for a life-time, and can gradually get worse.

There are over 100 types of arthritis that can affect many areas of the body. In addition to the joints, some other forms of arthritis are associated with diseases of other tissues and organs of the body such as the bowel and eyes.
Inflammation is a reaction of the body that causes swelling, redness, pain and lack of movement in the affected area.

Inflammation is a normal immune response to injury and disease forming agents such as viruses and bacteria. However when the inflammatory response has dealt with the problem it tends to go away. In many forms of arthritis however, the inflammation response does not go away but instead becomes part of the problem - damaging healthy tissues of the body. This can result in more inflammation and a continuing cycle is established. The damage can affect the bone, cartilage and the soft tissues surrounding the joint such as the tendons and ligaments.

 

Types of arthritis

Although there are over 100 types of arthritis, the most recognisable ones tend to be Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is one of the most disabling forms affecting many joints of the body. Its course varies from a few sypmtoms to severe painful deformities. It typically affects small joints such as fingers and wrists, but can also affect large joints. Many other tissues are often also affected in this disease.

 

Osteoarthritis is often classed as a "wear and tear" condition. It can also affect any joints, but is more common in big weight bearing joints, such as the hips and knees.

 

Treatments

In the initial stages of the disease, various analgesics, (pain killers) and anti-inflammatory drugs are used to relieve the pain and to encourage movement. If the arthritis progressively gets worse, referral to a rheumatologist is sometimes needed; to look at other more potent drug therapy to reduce the pain and deformity that the arthritis can produce. Sometimes surgery is required to replace worn out joints. Physical therapy, such as physiotherapy, osteopathy and massage can help greatly in maintaining joint mobility and reducing pain.
 
What you can do yourself

 

Self help is very important in this chronic condition! Simple activities such as regular walking, swimming and gentle exercise will help to maintain mobility. Keeping body weight to an optimum will reduce pressure on weight bearing joints.

 

A balanced diet is important is  for all health issues included arthritis. Vitamin D and calcium are needed for strong and healthy bone formation. A regular intake of oily fish such as mackeral is good for the joints. Failing this, cod liver oil or omega 3 oil supplemant is also beneficial. Glucosamine Sulphate is also recommended to help maintian healthy cartilage around the joints.

If you would like further information about how we might be able to help you manage your arthritis contact us here at the Earlsdon Practice by completing the form on our contact page.