ARTHRITIS
ARTHRITIS or Osteoarthritis is a painful disorder that affects your hands, feet, and joints. Although we associate it with old age, people at any age can get it, even professional athletes. Technically, Arthritis or Osteoarthritis is a disorder that causes the cartilage in joints to deteriorate. As the cartilage breaks down, the underlying bone is exposed and can develop rough growths or spurs that result in pain, swelling and stiffness. Quite often, osteoarthritis is related to repetitive tasks, injury or other kinds of overuse.
Rheumatoid arthritis is another form of arthritis. It is an abnormality in the body’s immune system that affects synovium, a connective tissue that helps lubricate the joints. This form of arthritis damages the bone and cartilage. Over time, the joints may even become misshapen, causing pain and stiffness.
Symptoms
The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis involve the joints. Depending on the type of arthritis you have, your signs and symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Decreased range of motion
