We’ve all heard of the term arthritis. Is a common joint problem that is usually associated with ageing. Although arthritis worsens with age, it can actually affect all groups of people, even youngsters. It also tends to affect women more than men. It is caused by the swelling and inflammation of joints and can cause recurring pain, tenderness and stiffness.
There are two common types of arthritis to watch out for.
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis results from the breakdown of the cartilage around the joints. Whereas in rheumatoid arthritis it is the immune system that begins to attack the lining of the joints.
Cartilage is what keeps our bones from rubbing against each other, the wearing down of the cartilage in arthritis is the root of the joint pain you may experience. Arthritis can be diagnosed through a physical exam or by laboratory testing such as x-ray imaging. Once diagnosed with arthritis, your doctor will walk you through the various pain relief methods and exercises for arthritis that can help you to lead a relatively normal life, despite the condition.