Arthritis
Conveniently located to serve Artesia and Rancho Cucamonga
Contrary to popular belief, arthritis does not refer to a single disease or medical condition. In fact, the term “arthritis” is used to indicate more than 200 types of conditions associated with the inflammation of one or more joints in the body.
Although arthritis can affect any joint in the human body, the most common part to be affected is the feet. Since the foot contains 33 joints and bears a tremendous amount of weight and pressure, feet may be more susceptible to arthritis than other parts of the body.
Adults above age 65 are most commonly affected by arthritis, but this does not mean that children and young adults cannot be affected by it. According to various sources, women are more susceptible to arthritis than men. People who are obese can also become affected by this condition.
Causes of Arthritis
Depending on the type of arthritis, there are many potential causes. Generally, the wear and tear of the cartilage that connects the joints leads to arthritis. In some cases, the immune system attacks the tissues of the body and destroys them. Such a situation causes rheumatoid arthritis, which has the ability to destroy both bones and cartilage.
The following are all potential causes of arthritis:
- Heredity
- Age
- Viral and bacterial infections
- Excessive weight
- Prescriptions and illegal drugs
- Ill-fitting shoes
- Trauma
- Wear supportive shoes on a daily basis
- Begin a program of physical therapy, exercise or massage
- Use ice packs or hot packs
- Soak feet in lukewarm water
- Wear shock-retarding insoles
- Prescribe appropriate anti-inflammatory medications
- Perform appropriate x-rays and joint evaluation
- Recommend custom orthotics
- If the problem persists, surgery may be necessary
Symptoms of Arthritis
Since arthritis is quite common, it is helpful to know some of its symptoms:
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
Depending on the kind of arthritis a person has, the symptoms may vary. For instance, people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis may lose their appetite and feel fatigued frequently.
Generally, the symptoms of arthritis develop gradually. However, they may appear suddenly as well.
Treatment Options for Arthritis Symptoms
Diagnosis of arthritis at its earliest stage is ideal. Although there is no permanent cure for arthritis, there are a lot of ways to reduce the intensity of the symptoms.
Various medications and treatments are available for addressing different kinds of arthritis. Lifestyle changes such as switching to a healthy diet and doing regular exercise can go a long way in avoiding and getting relief from this condition:
- Wear supportive shoes on a daily basis
- Begin a program of physical therapy, exercise or massage
- Use ice packs or hot packs
- Soak feet in lukewarm water
- Wear shock-retarding insoles
We can:
- Prescribe appropriate anti-inflammatory medications
- Perform appropriate x-rays and joint evaluation
- Recommend custom orthotics
- If the problem persists, surgery may be necessary
