What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The surfaces of the joints are covered by a smooth layer of cartilage, allowing pain-free movement. Over time, this cartilage can wear down, leading to discomfort and difficulty in movement. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which occurs due to aging and wear and tear on the joints. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but the hip, knee, and shoulder are among the most commonly affected.
Causes of Arthritis
While the exact cause of arthritis is not always known, several factors contribute to joint degeneration:
- Aging (Osteoarthritis) – Natural wear and tear over time
- Previous injuries (Trauma or Fractures) – Joint damage from past injuries
- Overuse or Excessive Stress – Repetitive movements, sports injuries, or physically demanding jobs
- Inflammatory conditions (Rheumatoid Arthritis) – Autoimmune disorders attacking joint tissue
- Infections – Joint infections causing cartilage damage
- Obesity & Sedentary Lifestyle – Increased stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees
Symptoms of Arthritis
Arthritis symptoms vary based on the severity and location of joint damage but commonly include:
- Joint pain and stiffness – Worse after inactivity or prolonged movement
- Swelling and inflammation – Due to irritation of the joint lining
- Reduced range of motion– Difficulty moving the joint freely
- Grinding or clicking sensation – Caused by bone rubbing against bone
- Weakness or instability – Particularly in weight-bearing joints like the hip and knee
Diagnosis
A doctor will diagnose arthritis through:
- Medical history – Symptoms, past injuries, and family history
- Physical examination – Checking for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion
- Imaging tests – X-rays to assess joint space narrowing and bone changes
- MRI or CT scans – In some cases, to evaluate soft tissue and cartilage damage
Treatment Options
Although there is no cure for arthritis, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve joint function.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, or joint injections
- Lifestyle modifications:
- Low-impact exercises (e.g., swimming, walking, cycling)
- Weight management to reduce joint stress
- Heat/cold therapy for pain relief
- Proper posture and ergonomic support
- Physical therapy – Strengthening and flexibility exercises to support joint function
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered, such as:
- Arthroscopy – Minimally invasive surgery to remove damaged tissue
- Joint replacement (Hip, Knee, Shoulder) – Replacing the damaged joint with an artificial implant
- Osteotomy – Reshaping bones to relieve joint stress
Arthritis of the hip, knee, and shoulder can significantly impact daily life, but early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and maintain mobility.
