Arthritis
Arthritis
Arthritis is a particularly common condition affecting the joints of the body. Arthritis is seen as a condition that only impacts the elderly but in actual fact anyone can be at risk of developing arthritis. Arthritis sufferers usually experience joint stiffness and pain due to inflammation and damage of the cartilage in their joints. Moreover arthritis can be responsible for weakness, instability, and deformities which make day to day living complicated.
There are more than 100 types of arthritis, with Osteoarthritis (OA) being the most common. Most types of arthritis are characterised by reductions to the joint space, the growth of bone spurs, and degeneration of the joints surfaces. Osteoarthritis is a condition affecting the elderly, but there are many forms of arthritis affecting young and otherwise healthy individuals. These are referred to as inflammatory forms of arthritis and are usually systemic, meaning they affect multiple joints throughout the body. Some of the most common include Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Juvenile arthritis and even Gout.
Types of Arthritis
Osteoarthritis: Over time, the cartilage that lines the end of bones can become worn and torn; this will be accompanied by a reduction to the joint space as the bones get closer together. Finally the body may lay down extra bone in the form of spurs to help in the stabilization of the whole joint. This underlying bone then becomes very inflamed and painful, resulting in stiffness and limitations in movement. Commonly the weight-bearing joints such as the hip and knee are hit but it can occur in any joint throughout the body.
Osteoarthritis generally affects people over the age of 45 and tends to develop gradually over many years.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Systemic forms of arthritis such as Rheumatoid Arthritis can be regarded as an autoimmune disease, which cause pain and swelling of the joints. Rheumatoid
Arthritis occurs when some of the cells of the immune system attack the lining of the joints rather than protecting them. The origin of Rheumatoid Arthritis remains doubtful, but it can have a familiar tendency.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Psoriasis is usually considered a skin condition but estimated that 1 in 10 sufferers will also develop psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is similar to other types of arthritis in that it will cause pain and inflammation as well as stiffness and swelling in the joints.
Ankylosing Spondylitis: This autoimmune type arthritis not only affects peripheral regions like the ankles and knees, it will impact greatly on the spine and pelvic joints. Ankylosing spondylitis creates stiffness and will in the later stages even result in fusion of the vertebrae in the spine. It is crucial that this condition is diagnosed and managed early.
So, if you are suffering from arthritis or joint pain and live in Rouse Hill, Riverstone, Kellyville or anywhere in the Hills district we may be able to help you. To book in for a new patient consultation you can call 8883 2270 or book online .
