Although arthritis cannot be cured, it may be managed with an efficient arthritis treatment plan. Controlling pain and other symptoms, minimizing joint damage and deformities, slowing the development of the illness, and preserving physical function are all aims of arthritis treatment. There are various forms of Leawood arthritis, each with its therapies. Medication, lifestyle modifications, joint injections, surgeries, and more treatments for arthritis are available. Additionally, arthritis treatment is determined by the disease’s kind, severity, and location. Treatments that are commonly used include:

1.      Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can help to lessen joint inflammation and discomfort.

2.      Physical therapy and exercise can help increase range of motion and flexibility while also strengthening muscles and bones. Massage treatment, aquatic therapy, and orthotics are some of the other choices.

3.      For certain people, joint replacement (arthroplasty) or joint fusion surgery may be the best therapy choice.

Common types of arthritis

There are over 100 various forms of arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis are two prevalent kinds of arthritis (RA).

1.      Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common types of arthritis caused by normal wear and tear. A joint infection or injury can hasten the normal degradation of cartilage tissue. In your joints, cartilage is a tough yet flexible connective tissue. It safeguards your joints by absorbing the pressure and shock of movement and stressing them. Arthritis is caused by a decline in the typical quantity of cartilage tissue. If you have a family history of OA, your chances of acquiring it are even higher.

2.      Rheumatoid arthritis

The autoimmune condition rheumatoid arthritis is another frequent kind of arthritis. It happens when your immune system assaults your body’s tissues, causing inflammation in your joints and other bodily organs. The synovium, soft tissue in the joints that creates a fluid that nourishes the cartilage and lubricates the joints, is affected by this inflammatory reaction in the joints, eventually damaging both bone and cartilage inside the joint. It is unclear what causes the immune system’s assaults.  

3.      Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid in the body that the kidneys cannot effectively drain out. The big toe is the most typically affected; however, it can also impact the ankle, knee, foot, hand, wrist, or elbow. Gout is defined by painful flare-ups that last days or weeks, followed by periods of symptom-free time.

4.      Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Lupus is an autoimmune illness that can damage the skin, joints, heart, lungs, blood, kidneys, and brain, among other organs. Lupus can impact men, women, and children of all ages, although it most commonly affects women of reproductive age (ages 15 to 45). Females are eight to ten times more prone than males to have systemic lupus erythematosus.

Arthritis is a painful disorder that causes inflammation of the joints. Different forms of arthritis might create symptoms that seem similar. The proper diagnosis is critical since it can assist decide the most effective treatment choices. The appropriate therapy may also help you avoid future issues and live a more active life. Call Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance or schedule a meeting today to benefit from arthritis therapies.

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