Arthritis, in particular osteoarthritis (OA), refers to degeneration of joints that results in reduced synovial tissue at the affected joint, osteophyte formation, reduced articular cartilage and meniscus.
OA is the most common type of arthritis affecting over 25% of the population over the age of 18 years old.
The progressive loss of cartilage and osteophyte formation can result in variable degrees of inflammation, stiffness and pain and presents as chronic pain.
Risk factors for arthritis are previous joint injury, obesity, aging and heredity.
The most common types of Arthritis are:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) Treatment
Osteoarthritis, often referred to as OA, is a common and degenerative joint condition that primarily affects the cartilage within joints.
Several factors are believed to contribute to Rheumatoid Arthritis development, including:
- Age
- Joint Overuse
- Obesity
- Genetics
- Joint Injury
- Hormones
- Inactivity
- Joint Misalignment
- Bone Density
Common symptoms of Osteoarthritis (varying from person to person) include:
- Joint Pain
- Swelling
- Grating Sensation
- Reduced Range of Motion
- Stiffness
- Instability
- Tenderness
- Difficulty Performing Daily Activities
- Bone Spurs
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Treatment at Fulcrum Therapy in Coquitlam
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease that affects the synovial joints of the body. RA is associated with disability and makes it difficult for individuals to perform their everyday activities of living.
This condition is more common in females than males and is predominant in the elderly.
Several factors are believed to contribute to Rheumatoid Arthritis development, including:
- Genetics
- Autoimmune Response
- Age
- Hormonal Factors
- Environmental and Lifestyle Factors Like Smoking
Common symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis (which can vary from person to person) include:
- Joint Pain and Stiffness
- Difficulty with Daily Activities
- Morning Stiffness
- Fatigue
- Joint Swelling
- Eye Inflammation
- Joint Deformities
- Loss of Range of Motion
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How to Tell What Type of Arthritis I Have?
Wondering what type of arthritis you are suffering from? Watch this video from clevelandclinic.org to understand the differences between OA and RA, each one’s symtoms and how to choose the right treatment option.
What is arthritis and how does it affect my joints?
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. It can affect one or multiple joints. It also affects the cartilage, which is the protective cushion in joints, making movement painful. The most common type of arthritis is Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
How do I know if I have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is typically caused by wear and tear, affecting older individuals, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can occur at any age and affects multiple joints symmetrically. Rheumatoid arthritis has a sudden onset whereas osteoarthritis gradually comes on. There will also be swelling and warmth with RA.
What are the most common symptoms of arthritis?
The common symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, decreased range of motion, joint deformities in severe cases and sometimes redness or warmth around the joints.
How can physiotherapy help with managing pain with arthritis?
Physiotherapy can help relieve pain, improve joint mobility, strengthen muscles around the joints, and reduce inflammation through exercises, manual therapy, and specialized treatments.
What treatment options are available for arthritis at Fulcrum Therapy?
Fulcrum Therapy offers a range of treatments for arthritis, including physiotherapy, manual therapy, exercise programs, and modalities like ultrasound therapy and heat/cold therapy to manage pain and improve function.