The Types and Causes of Arthritis
The pain and swelling of arthritis can affect any joint in the body. There are more than 150 different types of arthritis and they can have a variety of causes. But most of them are caused by a fault in the immune system. Other causes include injury, genetic defect, infection, and overuse.
Osteoarthritis: The Most Common Type
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which can occur in any joint except the spine and the joints at the base of the skull (the mandible). It usually starts with tiny bits of extra bone called osteophytes growing at the ends of bones in the joint. This can cause the cartilage, which lines the joints and helps them move smoothly, to roughen up. It can also cause an increase in the amount of thick fluid inside the joint and make the joint capsule stretch.
Prevention and Non-Drug Approaches
Osteoarthritis can get worse as people age, but it's possible to prevent it with exercise and healthy eating habits. You can also try non-drug approaches like heat and cold therapy, acupuncture, massage, and yoga.
Diagnosis and Management
Your doctor may do blood tests or an imaging scan, such as an X-ray or MRI, to identify the cause of your symptoms. He or she may recommend that you see a specialist, called a rheumatologist. This type of doctor specializes in inflammatory arthritis and can help you manage your symptoms and avoid serious problems with the joints.
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms of arthritis are pain and stiffness in the affected joint. Often, a person can work around the symptoms by wearing comfortable clothing or using over-the-counter medications to reduce inflammation. But if you're having severe pain, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Self-Management and Assistive Devices
You can help manage your arthritis by maintaining a healthy weight, taking vitamins and supplements, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. You can also use assistive devices like canes and walkers to keep your joints safe and help you with daily tasks.
Acupuncture as a Treatment Option
Acupuncture is an effective form of treatment for arthritis because it targets the nerves in the body that transmit pain signals to the brain. It can also relieve other symptoms of the disease, including fatigue and depression.
Developing a Personalized Treatment Plan
The best way to control arthritis is to work with your doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan. Depending on the kind of arthritis you have, your treatment may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery to repair damaged joints. Your doctor will also discuss other treatments that might help you with your symptoms, such as acupuncture, exercise, and other lifestyle choices. You might also consider working with a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or other health professional who can teach you how to manage your arthritis and improve your quality of life.
Onset of Inflammatory Arthritis
Most patients with inflammatory arthritis will have a slow onset, starting with stiffness that is not as bad as it gets, or a pattern of swelling and tenderness in one or more joints over weeks to months. A few patients experience an explosive onset, with a rapid change in their joints.
