Arthritis

Causes:

The causes of arthritis depend on the form of arthritis. These include injury, abnormal metabolism, inheritance, infections, and an overactive immune system.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Pain, which can vary in severity
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Aching around the joint(s)
• Inability to use the hand or walk
• Stiffness, which may be worse in the morning, or after use
• Uneasiness and fatigue
• Weight loss
• Poor sleep
• Muscle aches and pains
• Tenderness
• Difficulty moving the joint
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of flexibility
• Decreased aerobic fitness

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Diagnosis is made by clinical examination and may be supported by other tests such as radiology and blood tests. Physical examination may confirm the diagnosis or indicate systemic disease. Radiographs are often used to follow progression or help assess severity.

Blood tests and X-rays of the affected joints often are performed to make the diagnosis.

Treatment may not be necessary with minimal or no symptoms. When symptoms are troubling and persist, treatment might include pain and anti-inflammatory medications. Furthermore, heat/cold applications and topical pain creams can be helpful.

Weight reduction is recommended for overweight patients. For many patients with arthritis, mild pain relievers may be sufficient. Pain-relieving creams applied to the skin over the joints can provide relief of minor arthritis pain. Medications can help reduce inflammation in the joint which decreases pain. Moreover, by decreasing inflammation, the joint damage may be slowed.

Joint replacement surgery may be required in eroding forms of arthritis.

Studies have shown that physical exercise of the affected joint can noticeably improve long-term pain relief. Furthermore, the exercise of the arthritic joint is encouraged to maintain the health of the particular joint and the overall body of the person.