Arthritis

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to inflammation of one or more joints and is a term used to describe more than 100 different conditions. Arthritis is frequently accompanied by joint pain, also known as arthralgia, which is one of the main reasons patients seek treatment.

Arthritis may affect a single joint, known as monoarthritis; two or three joints, known as oligoarthritis; or four or more joints, known as polyarthritis. Different types of arthritis range from conditions related to the breakdown of joint cartilage, such as osteoarthritis, to those associated with an overactive immune system, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

What Causes Arthritis?

The causes of arthritis vary depending on the type. Some forms develop as cartilage wears down over time, while others are associated with inflammation, injury, or underlying medical conditions.

Factors that may contribute to arthritis include:

• Age-related changes in joint cartilage
• Previous joint injuries
• Repetitive stress from work or sports activities
• Family history and certain genetic conditions
• Autoimmune diseases
• Other medical conditions, such as gout

Arthritis Symptoms

Symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type and the joints affected. Common symptoms include:

• Joint pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Reduced range of motion
• Difficulty moving or using the affected joint

Symptoms may develop gradually or become more noticeable over time. Some types of arthritis may also cause symptoms beyond the joints.

Types of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, sometimes called degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease, involves the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Joint cartilage is a protective tissue found at joint surfaces that provides cushioning and allows smooth movement. When cartilage wears away, the bones may rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted movement.

Although osteoarthritis can occur in any joint, it most often affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine. It becomes more common with age and may also be associated with joint injury, repetitive stress, family history, and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the synovial membrane, the tissue lining the joints, to become thickened and inflamed. This chronic inflammation can damage cartilage and other joint structures, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects women more often than men and may also affect other parts of the body, including the skin and heart.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Post-traumatic arthritis may develop after an injury to a joint in which the bone or cartilage does not heal properly. Damage to the joint surface can cause irregularities that lead to increased wear and arthritis over time.

Paget’s Disease

Paget’s disease is a bone disorder that affects the normal process of bone renewal. Changes in bone density and shape can lead to bone pain, deformity, and joint problems, including arthritis in nearby joints.

Avascular Necrosis

Avascular necrosis occurs when a bone loses its normal blood supply. This may happen following certain injuries or as a result of medical conditions or treatments, including long-term corticosteroid use. Without adequate blood supply, the bone can weaken and collapse, potentially damaging the joint surface and leading to arthritis.