An Introduction To Types of Athritis

PETERBOROUGH, Ontario - Aug. 12, 2013 - PRLog -- Types of Arthritis

 

Many of us know exactly what arthritis feels like! The term Arthritis (“arth” meaning joint, and “itis” meaning inflammation) covers about 100 conditions-but they all give us joint and musculoskeletal pain.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. 1 in 10 Canadians have this form. Cartilage that surrounds and protects the bones breaks down.  Pain, swelling, and stiffness are felt most often in the hips, knees and spine.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that also affects 1 in 10 Canadians of all ages. RA causes redness, swelling, and a “hot” feeling in 3 or more joints lasting more than 30 minutes.

Fibromyalgia is another form of arthritis with widespread pain in ligaments, muscles, and tendons. It affects 3 in every 100 Canadians.

Gout affects 1 in 30 Canadians and is due to high concentrations of uric acid, which is usually flushed from our systems by our kidneys. It is characterized by intense, ongoing pain in one joint- usually the big toe.

Ankylosing Spondylitis affects the spine and causes bent posture. 1 in100 Canadians are affected.

Unfortunately we do not know what cause arthritis and there is no cure, but it is not all bad news. Treatments can help manage most forms of arthritis so it’s important to get the correct diagnosis early and begin therapy. Speak with your doctor before beginning any treatments. Explain where the pain is, the severity, how often it bothers you, and describe specifically how it feels so the doctor can prescribe the best treatment for your type of arthritis.