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Arthritis--What Is It?
by Stephanie (Stevie) Reisinger, RN, PA (retired)
Have you ever wondered what the word Arthritis means? It is from the Latin, arthron, joint, + itis, inflammation. So, arthritis is joint inflammation, and can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and deformity. It is very common, affects millions of people, and is found in several forms. For our purposes here at ChronicPainSite.com we are going to concentrate on two forms, Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.{1}
OSTEOARTHRTIS
This is the most prevalent type of arthritis, also called degenerative arthritis, and while it tends to increase as we age, it is not considered to be a part of normal aging. It is marked by a progression of cartilage deterioration in the synovial joints and vertebrae. Besides aging, other risk factors include obesity, trauma, and overusing our joints in very strenuous jobs, or during repetitive sporting activities.
Treatment options include the use of anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS), analgesics, rest, weight loss if considered necessary, heat, physical therapy, and home safety measures. It is important to learn to limit activities that cause irritation to the joints. When pain cannot be controlled with the above conservative measures, joint replacement may be warranted.{2}
RHEUMATOID ARHTRITIS
The development and severity of this disease includes factors such as heredity, autoimmune phenomena, and the environment.
Some people develop symptoms quickly, but it is generally found that the joint pain and fatigue increase gradually over a period of several months. Also prevalent is stiffness that is worse in the mornings and after periods of rest. Rheumatoid Arthritis can also cause changes in the body’s organs, affecting the heart and lungs, as well as eye complaints, and neuropathies (diseases of the nerves).
Treatment modalities include (DMARDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs like methotrexae. NSAIDS, like ibuprofen are also used as well as corticosteroids. Also used are gold compounds and immunosuppressive agents like cyclosporine, azathioprine, and mycophenolate. The goal of treatment is to prevent bony growths and loss of motion.
To help pain and stiffness moist heat, and warm baths and soaks are beneficial before and during exercise. Both Physical and Occupational therapy can be vital to keep full range of motion in the joints. As with osteoarthritis, it is imperative to pace activities and to limit long periods of sitting or standing.
For more information, contact the Arthritis Foundation (404-872-7100) or www.arthritis.org {3}
References:
{1} www.tabers.com/tabersonline/ub/view/Tabers/74081/17/arthritis
{2} www.tabers.com/tabersonline/ub/view/Tabers/74691/39/osteoarthri
{3} www.tabers.com/tabersonline/ub/view/Tabers/74081/41/rheumatoid
This article represents the author's opinions and not those of the website operator. We are not offering individualized diagnoses or medical advice, just general medical information
Published on site 6/28/08
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