Arthritis can affect mobility and wellbeing for people of all ages. It is a common and diverse group of conditions involving inflammation of the joints and causing pain, stiffness and swelling. With over 100 different types, arthritis affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, making it one of the leading causes of disability globally.
Book your appointmentThe most prevalent forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout, each with its unique characteristics and treatment approaches. Arthritis can impact various joints in the body, affecting mobility and diminishing the overall quality of life for those who experience its chronic effects. Understanding the specific type of arthritis and implementing tailored management strategies are crucial for alleviating your symptoms and improving your wellbeing as you live with and manage your condition.
Get in touchOA is also known as wear and tear. This is simply because it occurs when the cartilage that lies between the bones and joints starts to wear away through daily usage. In some people the cartilage rebuilds itself and they have no symptoms. However, in most people when the cartilage deteriorates, the bone underneath can thicken, causing pain, stiffness and swelling. The joints most affected are the knees, hips, hands and big toes.
OA is uncommon before the age of 40 and is more common in women than men. Though the exact cause of OA is unknown, it is probably due to the fact that as we age, we tend to put on weight and thereby put more pressure on our joints, so our muscles become weaker and our body loses its ability to heal itself. When OA occurs in younger people, it is usually because the joint cartilage has been damaged through injury (such as a sprain or fracture), a bacterial or viral infection or even through overuse of a particular joint as is common in farmers (hips), plumbers (knees) and footballers (knees and ankles). Arthritis Research UK estimates that 8 million people in the UK are affected by OA but only 1 million seek treatment.
RA is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the synovial membranes within the joints. The synovial fluid lubricates the joints and because of this we have thousands of them all over our body. Therefore, any joint can be affected but RA particularly affects the hands, feet, wrists, ankles and knees, and tends to occur symmetrically. RA tends to affect the smaller joints such as the fingers and toes first, so feet are often one of the first places to be affected. Symptoms usually strike the toes first and may then affect the back of the feet and the ankles. The joints may enlarge and even freeze in one position so they can’t extend fully.
Unfortunately, RA is the more aggressive type of arthritis, as the immune system is essentially attacking the joints for no reason. RA often results in more severe deformity of both the hands and feet. However, the lungs, heart and liver can also be affected.
The treatment for arthritis aims to alleviate symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life, with the specific approach depending on the type and severity of arthritis. Medications form a key component, including pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be prescribed for autoimmune forms of arthritis to slow disease progression. Physical therapy plays a crucial role, focusing on exercises to strengthen the muscles around affected joints, improve flexibility, and enhance joint function. Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating joint-friendly activities, are vital. Assistive devices like braces or walking aids may be recommended for added support. In some cases, surgical interventions, such as joint replacement, may be considered for severe joint damage.
Collaborating with a podiatrist to help tailor a comprehensive treatment plan based on individual needs is essential for effectively managing arthritis. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan ensure optimal results and improved quality of life for individuals living with arthritis.
Book a consultationArthritis is a term used to describe joint inflammation. It can refer to a group of more than 100 different types of joint disorders. The most common forms are osteoarthritis (caused by wear and tear on joints over time) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disorder). Other causes include gout, lupus, and infectious arthritis.
The symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type but often include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion. Fatigue and overall weakness can also be associated with some forms of arthritis. Symptoms may fluctuate in intensity and can affect daily activities and quality of life.
Diagnosing arthritis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests (like X-rays or MRI), and laboratory tests (such as blood tests). These help healthcare professionals identify the type of arthritis and determine the extent of joint damage.
Treatment for arthritis aims to manage symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance the overall quality of life. Common approaches include medications like pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and assistive devices may be recommended. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as joint replacement or joint fusion may be considered.
