|
Arthritis
Arthritis is the number one cause of chronic disability in the United States. Affecting nearly 40 million Americans, arthritis refers to more than 100 diseases that cause pain, stiffness and swelling from the inflammation of a joint or the area around joints.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis affecting about 16 million Americans, usually middle-aged and older people. A noninflammatory degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis is characterized by the breakdown of the joint's cartilage. The exact cause of osteoarthritis is unknown.
In some types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, the synovium becomes inflamed. Synovium is a membrane that lines the capsule of a joint and secretes synovial fluid. This inflammation causes chemicals to be released that thicken the synovium and damage the cartilage and bone of the affected joint. This leads to inflammation of the synovium causing pain and swelling.
Arthritic pain can be continuous or intermittent. Pain may occur after activity or exercise, but it also may happen even if you've been resting and immobile for a period of time. Pain may be concentrated in one spot or felt all over your body. Joints may feel stiff and difficult to move. Daily chores such as climbing stairs and opening cans may become challenging. You may notice that pain is more severe during certain times of the day or after performing certain tasks.
Some kinds of arthritis cause swelling or inflammation. The skin over the joint may appear swollen and red and feel hot when touched. Arthritis also may cause fatigue.
However, early diagnosis and treatment tailored to an individual's needs can help slow or prevent damage to joints. Only a physician can determine if you have arthritis and the patient's type. Arthritis is diagnosed based on the overall pattern of symptoms, medical history,a physical exam, X-rays and lab tests.
Because many types of arthritis exist, each type of arthritis has different symptoms and treatments. The good news is that proper treatment can help control arthritis. Care for arthritis often involves more than one type of treatment. Treatment may vary over time and may be different depending on the kind of arthritis. Consult your doctor to discuss the best treatment options for you.
Physicians at the Ohio Orthepedic Center of Excellence can provide you with total arthritis care and a plan for retaining as active a lifestyle as possible. Depending on the type and severity of your arthritis, your plan may include one or more of the following treatment options:
• Medications to ease the pain and inflammation
• A regimen of exercise to strengthen muscles and keep the joints working
• The application of heat or cold
• Instructions on careful use of joints to avoid further aggravation of your condition
• Assistance devices such as a cane or walker
• In severe cases, surgery
|
