WHAT IS ARTHRITIS? I t is defined as an acute or chronic joint inflammation.Arthritis can make life difficult by reducing mobility and making everyday activities harder It is a degenerative disease meaning that it progresses over time and that there is no cure. Anyone can get arthritis, including children and young people. It can affect people from all backgrounds, ages and lifestyles.
Types of arthritis There are many common types of arthritis. These include: Gout Juvenile arthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis Oesteoarthritis
Oesteoarthritis The most common type of arthritis is Oesteoarthritis. OA is caused by damage or breakdown of joint cartilage between bones and is often called the “wear and tear” disease. According to WHO: In 2019, about 528 million people worldwide were living with osteoarthritis; an increase of 113% since 1990 . About 73% of people living with osteoarthritis are older than 55 years, and 60% are female , with a prevalence of 365 million, the knee is the most frequently affected joint, followed by the hip and the hand.
Risk Factors Age Gender Genetics Race Being overweight or obese Repetitive actions or overuse of joints over time
Common Signs and Symptoms Joint Pain Stiffness to the joint ( particularly in the morning) Warmth or redness over the affected joint Weakness and loss of muscle mass
Other Signs and Symptoms Some more uncommon signs and symptoms could include: Widespread pain Extreme fatigue Scaly itchy skin Changes to finger or toe nails Rashes Fever Weight loss
Diagnosis Arthritis can be diagnosed through a physical examination and further testing such as X-rays and MRI to the affected area.
Treatment There is no known cure for arthritis.The treatment focuses on reducing symptoms while improving and maintaining quality of life. This includes: Medications such as NSAIDS Physiotherapy through exercise and education on lifestyle changes Balancing activity with rest Having a balanced,healthy diet. In cases where the arthritis is severe, a doctor may also recommend surgical intervention.
Physiotherapy and Arthritis O ne of the key fighters to combat arthritis is exercise. PT can: Improve your overall fitness level Increase endurance Alleviate stiffness Decrease fatigue Improve balance and stability Increase coordination
Physiotherapy and Arthritis Some common intervention include: Pain relief and management through various modalities Stretches Cycling Aquatic therapy ROM and strengthening of affected joint Education on proper footwear and proper posture Education on proper lifting techniques Education on adequate rest intervals between day to day activites Encouragement to patients to be more proactive and active through daily exercise for atleast 15-20 mins