Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes, Types, and the Latest Advances in Treatment

Published by Vishesh Hospital

ARTHRITIS

Arthritis is not a single disease but a complex group of over 100 related disorders that cause joint pain, swelling, and loss of mobility. Globally, arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions, affecting both young and old, with a significant impact on daily living and quality of life. Staying informed about symptoms, types, and the latest breakthroughs is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.

Symptoms of Arthritis

Arthritis manifests with a range of symptoms, which may vary in intensity and duration. The most common include:

  • Persistent joint pain and tenderness

  • Swelling or puffiness in affected joints

  • Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity

  • Reduced range of motion and flexibility

  • Redness and warmth near the involved joint

  • Fatigue, low-grade fever (in some forms)

  • Difficulty performing regular tasks, such as climbing stairs or opening jars

Symptoms can develop suddenly or progress gradually and may affect one or multiple joints.

Causes and Risk Factors

Arthritis has diverse causes:

  • Genetics: Family history raises susceptibility

  • Age: Risk increases with advancing age

  • Sex: Certain types (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) are more common in women, while others (like gout) affect men more

  • Previous joint injury: Past damage can predispose joints to arthritis

  • Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on weight-bearing joints

  • Infection: Some forms of arthritis result from joint infections

  • Immune system dysfunction: The body mistakenly attacks its own joints (autoimmune arthritis)

  • Metabolic abnormalities: Gout, due to uric acid buildup, is a classic example.

Main Types of Arthritis

TypeDescription & Key Features
OsteoarthritisWear-and-tear damage to joint cartilage; most common, especially in knees, hips, hands.
Rheumatoid ArthritisImmune system attacks the lining of joints; systemic, often affects both sides equally.
Psoriatic ArthritisAssociated with psoriasis; causes joint pain, swelling, and skin lesions.
GoutSudden, severe pain (often in the big toe); due to uric acid crystal accumulation.
Juvenile ArthritisAffects children; joint pain, swelling, loss of motion.
LupusAutoimmune; can affect joints as well as organs like the kidneys and heart.
Ankylosing SpondylitisChronic inflammation mainly of the spine; can lead to fusion of vertebrae.

 

How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves:

  • Detailed medical history and physical examination

  • Blood tests (markers of inflammation, autoantibodies, uric acid, etc.)

  • Joint fluid analysis (for suspected gout or infection)

  • Imaging: X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI to assess the extent of joint damage.

Treatments: Traditional & New Frontiers

 Medical Management

  • Medication: Pain relievers (paracetamol), NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac), corticosteroids (short-term), and disease-modifying agents (DMARDs and biologics for inflammatory types).

  • Physical therapy: Tailored exercise programs to increase strength, mobility, and function.

  • Lifestyle: Weight management, balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, and smoking cessation.

  • Assistive devices: Braces, splints, walking aids.

  • Surgery: In advanced cases, options like joint replacement or arthroscopy.

FAQs

Most forms cannot be cured, but many can be well controlled and even enter remission.

No—many people do well with medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Surgery is recommended only in advanced, disabling cases.

Yes. Ask about biologics, stem cell therapies, nerve stimulators, and recent clinical trial opportunities for advanced care.

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