If you are like many people, you think that arthritis is a disease that causes pain and stiffness in your joints – and you would be right! You might also think that’s all you need to know about arthritis, but you would be incorrect. Arthritis is a sometimes-surprising condition that is a lot more complex than you may realize.
First, let’s cover everything you probably know. Arthritis affects your joints, which is where two bones come together to create a moving part. Rubbery cartilage covers the ends of bones so that they don’t grind against each other when you move. The synovial membrane contains thick fluid that lubricates the joints. Arthritis affects the various parts of the joint to cause symptoms – in some cases, arthritis can be debilitating.
Everything Else You Need to Know about Arthritis
Young people can get arthritis too
While arthritis usually affects older adults, kids and young adults can develop it too. In fact, more than 7 percent of people aged 18 to 44 have received a diagnosis of any type of arthritis.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, also known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, can affect children and adolescents. In fact, youngsters with the condition usually receive their diagnosis when they are between the ages of 6 months and 16 years.
Arthritis is common, especially among certain demographics
Nearly one-quarter of all adults in the United States, or about 58.5 million people, have doctor-diagnosed arthritis. The joint condition affects 23 percent of women and about 18 percent of men, and it is more common in adults who have fair or poor health than it is in those with excellent or very good health. Active adults are less likely to develop arthritis than are those who don’t get the recommended amount of exercise. Arthritis is also more common in older adults.
Arthritis isn’t a single disease – it is an umbrella term for more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions
There are many types of arthritis, and each affects the joints in its own way.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type, affecting more than 25 million Americans. It occurs most often in a person’s hands, knees, and hips. Often called “wear and tear arthritis” or degenerative joint disease, OA develops when the cartilage within a joint starts to break down and cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. The changes get worse over time.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes the synovial membrane to become inflamed and swollen. In time, RA can destroy the cartilage and bone of the joint.
Gout is a type of painful inflammatory arthritis that usually affects one joint at a time – often the big toe. Symptoms can flare then disappear.
Fibromyalgia causes pain all over your body, sleep problems, fatigue, and sometimes emotional and metal distress.
There isn’t a cure for arthritis, but treatments can slow it down
Researchers are still working to find a cure for arthritis. The good news is that medical treatment can slow its progression to keep you moving longer. Treatment includes lifestyle changes, various medicines, and sometimes surgery. Hydrotherapy, stretching, and massages may help too.
To learn more about arthritis and its causes, symptoms, and treatment, consult with your orthopedic specialist at Huntington Orthopedics. Addressing your arthritis early can help you regain control over your symptoms and your day.