Ever wonder what would happen if your joints suddenly became stiff and could not move properly? Your body would become stiff and unable to move, like a car with punctured tires. Arthritis is the condition where your joints become stiff and cannot move. It’s swelling and stiffness in one or more joints.
Types
Arthritis is a condition that affects the cartilages in joints. Depending on how severe the damage is and what type of damage it causes, there are many types.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (affects spine)
- Gout(effects big toe)
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (arthritis in children)
- Osteoarthritis( cartilage wear over time)
- People with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis.
- Reactive arthritis is joint pain caused by dysfunction in another part of your body.
- Rheumatoid arthritis( autoimmune disorder affecting joints)
- Septic arthritis (caused by germs)
- Thumb arthritis (affects the carpometacarpal joint in the body)
Signs
All types of arthritis have the most common symptoms.
- Morning stiffness
- Normal stiffening
- Fatigue
- Swelling
- Redness
- Fever
- Nullness
- Joint deformities
- Effective degree of movement and immobilization
- Warmth
Causes
Arthritis can be caused by a variety of factors.
- Family history: Some forms of arthritis can be caused by genetic factors and can impact you if your parents or siblings have been affected.
- Because of menopause, women are more at risk for arthritis than men.
- Age: Most arthritis is found in seniors. As we age, our bones and joints become weaker and more susceptible to infection.
- Arthritis: A previous joint injury can, if it is not treated correctly, lead to arthritis.
- Obesity can cause Arthritis if one’s body weight does not match one’s BMI. One’s body must bear more weight.
- Lifestyle: If you don’t lead a healthy lifestyle if your diet is poor, or if you smoke regularly, you may be at risk for developing arthritis
Treatment
Anti-inflammatory medication, rest, and, most importantly, proper physical therapy are all possible treatments for arthritis.
Both hot and cold therapy
Your physical therapist may suggest applying heat or ice to specific joints. The temperature and duration will be determined by the physical therapist to achieve the best results.
Exercise
Physical therapists may suggest exercises that can increase joint mobility and flexibility.
Assisted device
A physical therapist will guide you in using assist devices like walkers and canes. They will make sure you feel at ease with the assisted devices so you can do your job effectively
Conclusion
If not treated correctly, arthritis can cause severe pain and immobilization. A physical therapist experienced in arthritis can help you manage it effectively and minimize its side effects.
