The human body is made up of 206 bones connected by more than 100 joints. Arthritis involves joint and musculoskeletal pain in the joints, generally caused by inflammation of joint tissues. Depending on the type, arthritis can strike the elderly, young adults, adolescents and children, but half of those affected are between the ages of 30 and 50.
Forms of arthritis
Arthritis can take hundreds of forms, from the most benign like tendinitis and bursitis, to crippling ailments like rheumatoid arthritis, resulting in inflammation throughout the body.
The most common form, osteoarthritis, results from the wear and tear of joint cartilage, causing bones to rub against one another. Especially likely to affect the hips and knees, it usually strikes the elderly, but generally begins around age 40.
Causes and treatments
The exact causes of arthritis remain unknown. Certain forms appear to be genetic, others are caused by infections or by an overactive immune system. Early diagnosis is critical to establishing a treatment plan suited to the specific type of arthritis and allowing for better management of the disease.
Arthritis cannot be prevented, but its symptoms can be reduced. Prescription drugs are available to ease the pain and/or slow down its progression. To maintain joint mobility, exercise is also crucial. Relaxation, the application of heat and cold on painful joints, massage therapy and maintaining a healthy weight are other great ways to alleviate symptoms. To learn more, talk to your pharmacist.