What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a term used for a group of conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. It can affect people of all ages and is more common in women than men. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
What Triggers Arthritis?
There is no single cause of arthritis, but some factors may increase the risk of developing the condition. These include age, family history, obesity, and joint injuries.
Age: As people age, the wear and tear of the joints can lead to the development of osteoarthritis.
Family history: People who have family members with arthritis may be more likely to develop the condition.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra strain on the joints, leading to the development of arthritis.
Joint injuries: Joint injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can increase the risk of developing arthritis.
Treatment for Arthritis
Treatment for arthritis can vary depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of the condition. Common treatments include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and surgery.
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy: Exercise and physical therapy can help strengthen the joints and improve range of motion.
Lifestyle changes: Eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding activities that can put extra strain on the joints can help reduce symptoms.
Surgery: Surgery can be used to repair damaged joints or to replace them with prosthetic joints.