Arthritis Care
Overview
Arthritis is and literally means an "inflammation of a joint". The term arthritis covers a variety of afflictions that are inflammations of a
joint. These can include but are not limited to: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, seronegative, spondyloarthropathies, septic, and crytalline deposition diseases. Mostly adults
suffer from forms of arthritis, but children can also have it. It is a serious disability for many and contributes to major productivity losses.
Joints are at the junction where two or more bones meet, like the elbow where the bones of the lower arm meet with the upper arm. Cartilage covers the ends of the
bones in a joint and provide the ease of movement that would not be had in bone to bone contact. The synovium, a fibrous envelope that produces a fluid to reduce friction
and wear encloses a joint. Muscles and tendons enable the forces that move the joint while ligaments connecting the bones confer stability.
Arthritis can be separated into two major categories. The first type can be caused by the natural aging process, constant usage, or through some sort of trauma.
The second type is caused by any of the inflammatory processes. Inflammation is a natural reaction of the body to injury and disease.
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis. Trauma, overuse, and degeneration of cartilage over time can result in it. The cartilage covering the bone
ends wears away causing the bones to become hard and firm (sclerosis). The joint can become inflamed causing pain and swelling, especially with continued use. Joints
bearing a lot of weight like the knee, hip, and spine can sometimes be much more main painful as opposed to the wrist, elbow, and shoulder joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a lengthy disease that affects an estimated one percent of the world population. Of this population women are three times more likely to
develop the disease than men are. Rheumatoid arthritis development will slow with age. The disease can affect many parts of the body, but mainly attacks the joints with
the body's own immune system. Chemicals produced by the sufferer attack and destroy joint surfaces, large and small. Swelling, pain, and stiffness develop whether the
joints are actually in active use or not.
Diagnosis
Doctors will make a thorough evaluation of symptoms in conjunction with a physical exam. X-rays can provide insight into the amount of damage
to a particular joint. Other tests will help the doctor find the particular type of arthritis. Signs of the malady might include: weakness or atrophy of the muscles,
other swollen and painful joints, grating feelings or sounds (crepitus) when moving, pain upon application of pressure or movement, and limited ability to move the joint.
Medicines
Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are over the counter medications that can help with inflammation (anti-inflammatory). Acetaminophen can be
used in pain management.
A doctor may choose to suggest prescription strength medications based on the type of arthritis, general health of the patient, and severity of the case. Depending on
other medications the patient may be taking or pre-existing conditions, anti-inflammatory medications may not be an option.
Cortisone injections into the joint can temporarily relieve pain and swelling, but frequent, repeated injections can cause damage or side effects. Another type of
injection is viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid preparations) that lubricate the joint (usually the knee) and help it move more freely.
Exercise and Therapy for Arthritis
Items that relieve strain and stress on joints with arthritis can be helpful. For example walkers, canes, and crutches
can assist in performing normal activities in a way that are less stressful on the affected joints. Some exercises and types of physical therapy may be suggested to make
muscles around the joint stronger.
Orthopaedic Surgery Options for Arthritis
An orthopaedic surgeon may recommend surgery when other treatments have not any positive effect on pains and
other arthritic symptoms. Since the disease exists in several types an informed decision can only be made when considering the type, its severity, and the general health
of the patient. Some surgical options can include procedures that: remove damaged or diseased joint lining, replacement of the joint, realignment of the joints, or even
fusing bone ends to prevent movement and relieve pain.
Quality of Life Considerations
In many instances, persons with arthritis continue to engage in normal daily activities. Many steps can be taken to help
improve the quality of life of the patient. Anti-inflammatory drugs, exercise, better nutrition for weight loss can help reduce joint stress, pain and improve function.
In some cases surgery can provide great relief and added joint movement. A team of health care professionals can sometimes better care for certain types of arthritis, such
as rheumatoid. Studies and research continue to make progress in finding better treatments and perhaps eventually a cure. Meanwhile Dr. Burris, a local Austin orthopaedic
surgeon can help you with many of the current effective treatments.