Arthritis
What is arthritis?
Pain, stiffness and inflammation are the telltale signs that you may have arthritis.
The two most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, although there are over 150 other types that are still classified as arthritic conditions.
Despite osteoarthritis often being associated with ageing, it is relatively common in people of working age. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative process whereby the cushioning tissue (cartilage) between bones breaks down and makes the movement of joints painful.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a more complex and progressive disease which may develop in people as young as 25. It is characterised by inflammation and joint deterioration.
What causes arthritis?
Because there are so many types of arthritis it is difficult to pinpoint any specific causes. Even for the more common forms such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis the causes are still unknown.
Research indicates that rheumatoid arthritis may be triggered by a breakdown of the body's immune system and that it only affects people with a genetic or inherited susceptibility.
Could I have arthritis?
There are many different symptoms that may suggest you have an arthritic disease, and again these are often specific to a particular type of arthritis.
The most common symptoms include pain and aching in and around the joints, swelling and fatigue.
Other symptoms, which relate to the different types of arthritis, include skin rashes, weight loss, headache, loss of concentration and weakness.
You should always get your doctor to give you a thorough physical examination and assessment. They may also need to perform blood tests and take x-rays or other scans which will help them in their diagnosis.
Can arthritis be treated?
There isn't any simple or straightforward answer to the management of arthritic pain. However, a few adjustments to your daily routine will make the world of difference.
And although doctors and researchers are yet to find a cure for the disease, they have discovered a number of treatments and pain management options to lessen the pain, improve mobility and make your life easier.
Some recommended pain management options include:
- Medicine - your doctor can prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or pain killers to reduce swelling and ease the pain.
- Hot/Cold Treatments - these can help reduce the stiffness and pain of arthritis. Take a warm bath or shower, use hot packs or ice packs, treat yourself with hot water bottles, or visit your physiotherapist for ultrasound treatment.
- Exercise - If you do the right exercise program you'll find that your muscles stay strong, your joints mobile and your bones healthy. It's an excellent way to manage your pain, and if you do it in a warm hydrotherapy pool you'll find it's also relaxing and comfortable!
- Relaxation - Practise techniques of deep breathing, quietening the mind and letting go of the body so that you can disassociate yourself from your pain.
- Massage - One of the oldest, yet most soothing, forms of therapy for the treatment of arthritis, and the good news is that you can do it yourself! While you're in the bath or sitting down, you can massage and knead the muscles in a painful area to help loosen them up.
- Look after your body - If you take care of your body, from good posture to a healthy diet and lots of rest, you'll find it easier to manage the pain of your arthritis.
You may also opt for acupuncture, surgery, splints or nerve stimulation - whatever you choose, be aware of your disease and remember that something can be done to help you manage your pain.