Dr. Vikas Mehra, renowned as Chandigarh's best orthopedic surgeon, specializing in comprehensive musculoskeletal care. With a wealth of experience and dedication to excellence, Dr. Mehra offers expert treatment for various orthopedic conditions, including joint pain, fractures, sports injuries, and arthritis. Patients trust Dr. Mehra for his exceptional surgical skills, compassionate care, and commitment to restoring mobility and improving quality of life.
2. INTRODUCTION
Arthritis is a medical condition characterized by
inflammation and stiffness in the joints, leading to pain,
swelling, and reduced mobility. There are many types of
arthritis, but the most common ones include osteoarthritis
and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs due to wear
and tear of the joints over time, while rheumatoid arthritis
is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system
attacks the joints. Arthritis can affect people of all ages
and can impact daily activities and quality of life.
Treatment options include medication, physical therapy,
lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.
3. CAUSES OF ARTHRITIS
Osteoarthritis (OA): Typically develops due to wear and tear on the joints over time.
Factors such as aging, joint injury, obesity, and genetics can contribute to the breakdown of
cartilage, leading to osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder where the immune system
mistakenly attacks the synovium (the lining of the joints), leading to inflammation, joint
damage, and pain. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but genetics,
environmental factors, and hormonal changes may play a role.
Other Types of Arthritis: Other types of arthritis, such as psoriatic arthritis, gout,
lupus-related arthritis, and infectious arthritis, have specific causes related to underlying
conditions or infections.
Risk Factors: Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing arthritis, including
age, family history, obesity, joint injuries, and repetitive stress on the joints.
4. SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRTIS
Joint Pain: Persistent pain in one or more joints, which may worsen with
movement or activity.
Stiffness: Feeling stiffness or reduced flexibility in the affected joints, particularly
after periods of inactivity or upon waking up in the morning.
Swelling: Swelling or inflammation around the joints, leading to visible swelling or
a feeling of fullness in the joint area.
Redness and Warmth: The affected joints may appear red, warm to the touch,
and may feel warmer than surrounding areas.
Decreased Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the affected joints through their
full range of motion, leading to a sense of tightness or restriction.
5. TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR ARTHRITIS
Treatment options for arthritis include medications (pain
relievers, anti-inflammatories, DMARDs), physical therapy,
lifestyle modifications (weight management, joint
protection), surgery (joint repair, replacement),
complementary therapies (acupuncture, massage), and
patient education/support. Treatment plans are personalized
to manage symptoms and improve joint function, often
involving a combination of approaches tailored to individual
needs.