Arthritis is not a single disease - it is a term that covers over 100 medical conditions. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and generally affects elderly patients. Some form of arthritis can effects people at a very early age. In order to better understand what is going on when a person suffers from some form of arthritis , let us look at how a joint works.
Basically , a joint is where one bone moves on another bone. Ligaments hold the two bones together. The ligaments are elastic bands , while they keep the bones in place your muscles relax or contract to make the joint move.
Cartilage covers the bone surface to stop the two bones from rubbing directly against each other. The covering of cartilage allows the joint to work smoothly and painlessly.
A capsule surrounds the joint. The space within the joint - the joint cavity - has synovial fluid. Synovial fluid nourishes the joint and the cartilage. The synovial fluid is produced by the synovium (synovial membrane) which lines the joint cavity. If u have arthritis something goes wrong with the joint(s). What goes wrong depends on what type of arthritis you have. It could be that the cartilage is wearing away a lack of fluid , autoimmunity (your body attacking itself) , infection or a combination of many factors. There are over 100types of arthritis. Here is a description of some common ones , together with the causes :
Osteoarthritis - Cartilage loses its elasticity. If the cartilage is stiff it becomes damaged more easily. The cartilage , which act as a shock absorber , will gradually wear away in some areas. As the cartilage becomes damaged tendons and ligaments become stretched , causing pain. Eventually the bones may rub against each other causing very severe pain.
Arthritis sufferers will find there are good and bad days. Most patients with arthritis will suffer from discomfort , pain , stiffness and/or fatigue.
You may also feel frustrated that you are no longer able to grip things so well or get around like you used to. It is important to remember that if you suffer from arthritis this does not mean you have to give up having and active lifestyle. With some changes to your way of life there is no reason why you cannot continue being active.
Physical therapy : Physical therapy and occupational therapy help maintain joint mobility and range of motion. How much therapy you need and what kind of therapy will depend on many factors, such as the severity and type of arthritis you have , your age and your general state of health. This has to be decided by you with your physician and physical or occupational therapist.
People with arthritis will often avoid moving the effected joint because of the pain. A physical therapist can help the patient work out the joint stiffness without damaging it. In order to perform your daily activity the physical therapist will help you achieve a good range of motion. This may involve building strength in the muscles that surround the affected joint-stronger muscles help stabilize a weakened joint. You will also be taught the best way to move from one position to another , as well as learning how to use such walking aids as crutches , a cane or a walker , if you need one.
Occupational therapy can teach you how to reduce the strain on your joints as you go about your daily activities. The occupational therapist can help you modify your home and workplace so that your movements do not aggravate your arthritis. You may need a splint for your hands or wrists , as well as aids for dressing , housekeeping , work activities , driving and washing/bathing yourself.
An occupational and/or physical therapist can make an enormous difference to your quality of life if you suffer from arthritis.
He/she will help you learn more about your arthritis , devise a dietary plan if you are overweight and over-stressing the joints as a result , help you make better decisions about what shoes to buy if that part of the body is affected. You will learn how and when to rest a therapist will most likely devise and exercise program. Exercise is a crucial part of effective arthritis therapy.
