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Understanding Arthritis: A Guide from an Orthopaedic Surgeon

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions worldwide, yet it remains misunderstood by many. As an orthopaedic surgeon, I often encounter patients who suffer from joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, unsure of what is causing their discomfort or how to manage it. Arthritis is not a single disease but a broad term covering over 100 different conditions affecting the joints.

This blog aims to educate the public about arthritis, its types, causes, symptoms, and treatment options, helping those affected make informed decisions about their health.

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What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. The term “arthritis” comes from the Greek words “arthro” (joint) and “itis” (inflammation).

It is essential to distinguish arthritis from arthralgia, which refers to joint pain without inflammation. While arthritis is a significant cause of disability, early diagnosis and proper management can help improve quality of life.

Types of Arthritis

The most common types of arthritis include:

  1. Osteoarthritis (OA) – The most prevalent form, often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It occurs when joint cartilage breaks down over time.
  2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – An autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints.
  3. Gout – Caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe pain and swelling.
  4. Psoriatic Arthritis – A type of arthritis linked to psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition.
  5. Ankylosing Spondylitis – A chronic inflammatory disease affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints.
  6. Septic Arthritis – A serious bacterial infection in the joint, requiring immediate medical attention.
  7. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) – The most common type of arthritis in children, with various subtypes.

Each type of arthritis has a unique cause, progression, and treatment plan.

What Causes Arthritis?

The causes of arthritis depend on its type. Some of the most common factors include:

  • Aging – Osteoarthritis is more common as people grow older due to natural wear and tear.
  • Genetics – Some types, like rheumatoid arthritis and gout, have genetic predispositions.
  • Autoimmune Disorders – The immune system attacking healthy joint tissue, as seen in RA and psoriatic arthritis.
  • Infections – Bacteria or viruses can invade a joint, leading to septic arthritis.
  • Lifestyle Factors – Obesity, smoking, and poor diet can increase the risk and severity of arthritis.
  • Injury – Joint trauma can accelerate osteoarthritis development.
Symptoms of Arthritis

While symptoms vary by type, common signs include:

  • Joint pain and stiffness – Often worsening with activity or in the morning.
  • Swelling and redness – Especially in inflammatory arthritis like RA or gout.
  • Limited range of motion – Difficulty moving the affected joint.
  • Joint deformities – Common in advanced stages of arthritis.
  • Fatigue and fever – More typical in autoimmune arthritis conditions.

Early symptoms should not be ignored, as early intervention can prevent irreversible joint damage.

Diagnosing Arthritis

Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination, assessing pain, joint function, and patterns of inflammation. Additional diagnostic tools include:

  • Blood tests – Checking for inflammation markers (CRP, ESR), rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, or uric acid levels.
  • X-rays – Identifying joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and deformities.
  • MRI and CT scans – Providing detailed images of soft tissues and bones.
  • Joint fluid analysis – Detecting infections or crystal deposits in conditions like gout or septic arthritis.

A correct diagnosis is essential for effective treatment planning.

Treatment Options for Arthritis

Arthritis treatment focuses on pain relief, preserving joint function, and preventing further damage. Depending on the type and severity, treatment may include:

    1. Lifestyle and Non-Pharmacological Approaches
    • Weight Management – Reducing excess weight lessens joint stress, especially in knee osteoarthritis.
    • Exercise and Physical Therapy – Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and stretching improve flexibility and strength.
    • Joint Protection – Using braces, assistive devices, or ergonomic modifications can ease stress on affected joints.
    • Heat and Cold Therapy – Helps relieve stiffness and inflammation.
    2. Medications
    • Pain Relievers – Acetaminophen or NSAIDs like ibuprofen help manage pain.
    • Anti-Inflammatory Drugs – NSAIDs or corticosteroids reduce inflammation.
    • Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) – Used in RA to slow disease progression.
    • Biologic Agents – Advanced treatment for autoimmune arthritis, targeting specific inflammatory pathways.
    • Urate-Lowering Therapy (ULT) – Essential for managing gout by reducing uric acid levels.
    3. Injections and Procedures
    • Corticosteroid Injections – Provide temporary relief for severe inflammation.
    • Hyaluronic Acid Injections – Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections: HA lubricates joints and cushions cartilage, but its levels decrease in osteoarthritis. HA injections supplement this loss, reducing pain and improving mobility, though effectiveness varies, and repeated treatments may be needed.
    • Joint Aspiration – Removes excess fluid in cases of severe swelling.
    4. Surgery (For Severe Cases)
    • Arthroscopy – Minimally invasive surgery to remove damaged tissue.
    • Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty) – Effective for end-stage osteoarthritis in hips or knees.
    • Joint Fusion – Used in cases of severe deformity or instability.

Surgical options are typically considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief.

Living with Arthritis: Tips for Patients

Managing arthritis requires a proactive approach:

    1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
    • Stay Active – Regular movement prevents stiffness.
    • Follow a Balanced Diet – Include anti-inflammatory foods like fish, nuts, and leafy greens.
    • Quit Smoking – Smoking worsens inflammation and reduces treatment effectiveness.
    • Manage Stress – Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help.
    • Get Regular Check-ups – Early intervention prevents complications.
Future Outlook: Advances in Arthritis Treatment

Medical advancements continue to improve arthritis treatment:

    • Regenerative Medicine and Orthobiologics – Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP, derived from the patient’s own blood, contains growth factors that aid cartilage repair and reduce inflammation. It may offer longer-lasting relief than HA, especially in early to moderate arthritis, though results depend on disease severity and patient factors.
    • Pulsed Signal Repair Therapy (PSRT): A non-invasive treatment using electromagnetic fields to promote cellular repair and reduce inflammation. PSRT may improve pain, function, and slow cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis. While more research is needed, it can complement other treatments like therapy, injections, and medications.
    • Gene Therapy – Research is ongoing to target genetic factors in arthritis.
    • Precision Medicine – Personalized treatment plans based on genetic and biomarker analysis.

Although arthritis remains a significant health challenge, innovations in medicine offer hope for better management and potential cures.

To conclude, Arthritis is a complex yet manageable condition. Early diagnosis, lifestyle modifications, and the right treatment plan can significantly improve quality of life. If you experience persistent joint pain or stiffness, consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation

Remember, movement is medicine, and with the right care, you can maintain an active and fulfilling life despite arthritis.