Arthritis

Definition

Arthritis is a general term that refers to the inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can significantly impact mobility and daily activities, making it a common physical disability that affects people of all ages. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, each with its own causes and treatment options.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, affecting millions of individuals and limiting their ability to perform everyday tasks.
2. Symptoms of arthritis can vary widely but typically include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.
3. Factors contributing to arthritis include age, genetics, previous joint injuries, and obesity, which can put additional stress on weight-bearing joints.
4. Treatment options for arthritis may include medication for pain management, physical therapy to improve mobility, and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
5. In severe cases of arthritis where other treatments fail, surgical options like joint replacement may be considered to relieve pain and restore function.

Review Questions

• How does arthritis impact daily life for individuals living with this condition?
  • Arthritis can significantly impact daily life by causing chronic pain and stiffness in the joints, making it difficult for individuals to perform everyday tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, or even holding objects. The limitations in mobility can lead to a decrease in physical activity, which may contribute to weight gain and further joint stress. Additionally, the psychological effects of living with chronic pain can lead to feelings of frustration or depression.
• Compare and contrast osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in terms of their causes and symptoms.
  • Osteoarthritis is primarily caused by wear and tear on the joints over time, often associated with aging or repetitive joint use. Its symptoms typically include localized pain and stiffness that worsens with activity. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the joints, leading to widespread inflammation. Its symptoms can include systemic issues like fatigue and fever along with joint pain. While osteoarthritis affects specific joints based on use, rheumatoid arthritis can impact multiple joints symmetrically.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of non-surgical versus surgical treatments for managing severe arthritis cases.
  • Non-surgical treatments for severe arthritis often focus on pain management through medication, physical therapy to enhance mobility, and lifestyle modifications. These approaches can be effective for many individuals but may not provide complete relief for those with advanced disease. Surgical treatments like joint replacement offer a more definitive solution by removing damaged cartilage or bone and replacing it with artificial components. While surgery can significantly improve function and reduce pain, it also comes with risks and requires a longer recovery period. Evaluating these options should involve considering the severity of the condition, overall health status, and personal goals.

Related terms

Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness in affected joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, often resulting in joint damage and disability over time.

Joint Replacement: A surgical procedure to replace a damaged joint with an artificial implant, often performed to relieve severe arthritis pain and restore mobility.