One of the leading causes of disability in the U.S. is arthritis, affecting more than 50 million adults and 300,000 children. It is a highly misunderstood disease because its symptoms are complex. There is relief for this painful disease, and with proper arthritis care it is possible to manage successfully. HROSM offers care for patients suffering from arthritis.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a broad term used to describe the symptoms of joint pain or joint disease. It refers to inflammation of the joints and can affect one or multiple joints in the body. Commonly, it results from wear and tear on the cartilage that protects the joints or from an autoimmune disorder that attacks the cartilage.
Types of Arthritis
There are more than 100 manifestations of arthritis that fall under these main categories:
- Degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) – the cartilage protecting the bone wears away.
- Inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis) – the immune system malfunctions and attacks the cartilage and joints, causing erosion.
- Infectious arthritis – a virus, bacterium, or fungus enters the joint, causing inflammation.
- Metabolic arthritis – high levels of uric acid form sharp crystals in the joints.
Symptoms
Typically, people experience pain, swelling, stiffness and decreased range of motion. The intensity ranges from mild to severe. The symptoms can come and go, stay the same over many years or progressively get worse.
Treatment Options
Depending on the severity and type of arthritis, it can be treated in a variety of ways including prescription medications, proper exercise, a healthy diet, weight management or joint replacement surgery.
We provide arthritis care at all levels of care at Hampton Roads Orthopaedics Spine and Sports Medicine. You may also contact us with your questions. We are here to help!
