Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that triggers inflammation in joints. This inflammation could cause swelling, pain and discomfort in the knee, shoulder, or small joints in the spine. There are more than 100 types of arthritis that are caused due to different reasons and require specific treatment methods. However, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common conditions.

Typically arthritis is a slow disease that gradually develops symptoms between the age of 30 to 50. However, in some cases of rheumatoid arthritis, it may affect children, teenagers and young adults. In contrast, osteoarthritis develops after 50 or 60 years, and it is more common among people suffering from obesity.

Types Of Arthritis

The latest statistics shared by the Global RA Network state that around 350 million people have arthritis globally. While in India, approximately 15% of the population suffers from this disease

As stated earlier, different types of arthritis weaken the joints and affect day-to-day work. Here we have explained the most common types of arthritis, and they are: 

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that affects a larger population, hence known as the most common type of arthritis. In OA, the cartilage in the joints breaks down and causes the bones to rub against each other, thus causing inflammation, pain and even severe injury in the joints. 

The treatment includes physical monitoring, X-ray, image, or fluid testing by a medical professional. Thus, connecting with Siu-Ka-Pha Multispecialty Hospital provides all healthcare facilities under the same roof.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Another type of arthritis is Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It could affect individuals of any age as it is an autoimmune disease where the body starts attacking the healthy tissues resulting in joint stiffness and impact on the daily lifestyle.

In RA, you can eventually develop joint deformities and numbness, burning or tingling sensation in your feet and hands. However, there is no specific cure; doctors recommend self-care, exercises and anti-rheumatic drugs.

Juvenile Arthritis (JA)

As the name suggests, JA is an umbrella term for arthritis in kids younger than 16. It causes changes in growth patterns, tightening in muscle & soft tissues, lupus, scleroderma etc. It is essential to detect the conditions early and start the treatment process.

Other types of arthritis that affect the functionality of ligaments and joints are,

    • Reactive arthritis
    • Ankylosing spondylitis
    • Gout
    • Septic arthritis
    • Psoriatic arthritis
    • Thumb arthritis

Symptoms Of Arthritis

Different types of arthritis usually start with common symptoms that need to be taken care of. Have a look at the most common symptoms that could be an indication of arthritis,

    • Stiffness in joints (especially morning stiffness) 
    • Fatigue
    • Inflammation in the joints 
    • Swelling 
    • Popping sound after a sudden movement 
    • Decreased motion 
    • Redness 
    • Scraping feeling in knees 
    • Extra growth in fingers 

If you notice these symptoms in your body, connect with a medical professional momentarily. 

Risk Factors And Complications Related To Arthritis

Overall there are many risk factors involved with arthritis. These risk factors are caused due to –

    • Family history
    • Age 
    • Body weight
    • Untreated joint injury 
    • Gender
    • Smoking or Drinking

Arthritis is a serious condition that could directly affect an individual’s lifestyle. Severe or uncured arthritis could restrain your body from walking freely, sitting on the floor, or climbing stairs and gradually affect the body’s shape and alignment. 

Preventive methods for arthritis

In many cases, following the preventive methods could lower the risk of developing arthritis; these methods are:

    • Avoid tobacco products
    • Maintain a healthy weight 
    • Do a non-weight-bearing exercise
    • Eat calcium-rich food 
    • Reduce the risk of joint injuries

Getting appropriate treatment for arthritis would reduce complications and enhance the quality of life. Hence connect with Siu-Ka-Pha Hospital as we strive for affordable and accessible healthcare facilities and believe that remote areas should get proper treatment regardless of the disease. You can contact us to receive appropriate medical guidance.