Arthritis

Arthritis refers to a group of more than 100 disorders characterized by inflammation of one or more joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. The two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA): Resulting from wear and tear on joints, OA primarily affects the cartilage—the protective tissue covering the ends of bones. Over time, the cartilage breaks down, causing pain and stiffness, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium—the lining of the membranes that surround joints. This leads to inflammation, joint damage, and, if left untreated, can affect other organs.
Other types include gout, lupus arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Arthritis can impact people of all ages and backgrounds, and its exact cause often depends on the specific type. While some types may have a genetic component, others may result from joint injuries, infections, or metabolic abnormalities.
Effective management involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and rehabilitation to alleviate symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with arthritis.

Rehabilitation for arthritis typically includes:

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• Education: Understand the condition, joint protection, and energy conservation techniques.

• Exercise: Tailored exercises for flexibility, strength, and aerobic fitness to maintain joint function.

• Joint Protection: Techniques to minimize stress on affected joints during daily activities.

• Hot/Cold Therapy: Application of heat or cold to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Assistive Devices: Use of supportive aids like braces, splints, or canes to reduce joint strain.

• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight to alleviate pressure on joints.

• Pain Management: Medications, as prescribed, and techniques like mindfulness to manage pain.

• Occupational Therapy: Customized strategies for performing daily tasks with minimal joint stress.

• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and manual techniques to improve joint function.

• Surgical Intervention: If necessary, surgical options may be considered in consultation with a healthcare professional.