Arthritis is a joint inflammation condition. Arthritis symptoms normally occur gradually although the condition can occasionally appear unexpectedly. There is no known cause of arthritis. Researchers are now investigating the role of genetics (heredity) and lifestyle in the occurrence of arthritis. There are many factors that may increase your risk for Portland arthritis, including:
1. Age: Your joints wear down over time. That is why the chance of having arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, increases with age.
2. Sex: With the exception of gout, most kinds of arthritis are more common in women.
3. Genes: Some kinds of arthritis run in families. Certain genes have been related to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and ankylosing spondylitis.
4. Infection: Joint infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
5. Excess weight: Being overweight places additional strain on weight-bearing joints, causing wear and tear and increasing the incidence of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis.
6. Injuries: These can cause joint damage, which can lead to some forms of arthritis.
7. Work: Certain occupations that require repetitive motions or heavy lifting can induce joint stress or damage, leading to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis. For example, if your job involves a lot of knee bends and squats, you may be more prone to osteoarthritis.
What is juvenile arthritis?
Juvenile arthritis is a condition that causes synovial swelling (inflammation) in kids aged 16 and under. Synovium is the tissue that coats the interior of the joints. Also, juvenile arthritis is an autoimmune illness, which means that the immune system, which is supposed to defend the body from outside substances, instead assaults the body. The condition is also idiopathic, which means there is no known cause.
Surgery therapy for arthritis
Some arthritis patients may require surgery that aids in repairing or replacing a damaged joint. It can therefore alleviate discomfort and enhance the function of the damaged joint. Arthroscopy, joint resurfacing, osteotomy, and TJR are all examples of arthritis surgery.
You may suffer temporary discomfort and limited movement following surgery, but these issues should diminish over time. You are recommended to consider physical therapy following surgery to help strengthen the muscles and offer additional support to the joints.
Can a blood test diagnose arthritis?
There is no blood exam that can directly identify arthritis. However, if your healthcare professional suspects gout or rheumatoid arthritis, they might order blood work. It checks for uric acid or inflammatory proteins.
The outlook for those with arthritis
Most types of arthritis may be controlled, and the pain and impairment minimized with early diagnosis. Also, early diagnosis and therapy may prevent arthritis-related tissue damage. Early, proactive treatment is critical for rheumatoid arthritis to help avoid future damage and impairment.
While there is no cure for arthritis, the appropriate treatment can significantly alleviate your symptoms. In addition to the medicines recommended by your doctor, you may adopt a variety of lifestyle adjustments that may aid in managing your arthritis. Call Sports Health Northwest or book your appointment online to find out which arthritis therapies suit you.
