Arthritis

Key Points

Overview

Arthritis is a medical condition characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness in one or more joints, which can make moving the affected areas challenging. It is not a single disease but a term encompassing over 100 different types. Common types include osteoarthritis, which often affects weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, typically starting in later life. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition usually affecting smaller joints in the hands and feet. Other types include gout, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which affects children. While there is currently no cure for arthritis, various treatments and management strategies are available to help control symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance quality of life. These often involve a combination of therapies tailored to the specific type of arthritis and individual needs.

Signs and Symptoms

• Joint pain
• Joint swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Difficulty moving affected joints
• Sudden worsening of symptoms (flare-ups)

Things That Increase the Risk

• Increasing age
• Excess body weight
• Smoking
• Certain pre-existing conditions (e.g., psoriasis)

Diagnosis

• Review of medical history and symptoms
• Physical examination of joints
• Blood tests
• Imaging scans (X-ray or ultrasound)
• Joint fluid sample (for specific types like gout)

Treatment & Management

• Physiotherapy to improve strength and mobility
• Medications for pain, swelling, and inflammation
• Occupational therapy for daily tasks
• Mobility aids and equipment
• Complementary therapies (e.g., acupuncture)
• Surgery for severe cases

Prevention

• Engage in regular low-impact exercise
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Eat a balanced, healthy diet
• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol intake

Related Diseases

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Arthritis:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Arthritis: