Arthritis is a condition that afflicts millions of people regardless of age. Once considered a common problem among the elderly, young adults and children are being diagnosed with one of the many forms of arthritis. Similar to other conditions, arthritis affects people differently. Some are able to lead a relatively normal life, and only suffer from minor aches and pains. On the other hand, some arthritis suffers have limited mobility and require the assistance of wheel chairs or walkers. Diseases are random, thus it is impossible to predict conditions that we may develop. Nonetheless, there are steps that all of us can take to decrease our chances of developing arthritis. But, what is arthritis?

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is inflammation of joints, which may be characterized as redness, swelling, burning, or extreme stiffness. It is estimated that one in three people will develop some form of arthritis before the age of 40. Currently, 70 million Americans live with arthritis on a daily basis. There is no cure for this condition, thus sufferers adopt techniques and lifestyle changes that help them cope with the pain. Those who are diagnosed early may receive treatment to prevent tissue damage. This could possibly alleviate future disabilities. There are over 100 types of arthritis. However, the most common forms are:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Gout

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis affecting more than 20 million Americans. This type of arthritis is often referred to as degenerate joint disease because the cartilage that covers the bones little by little wears down. As the cartilage decreases, bones are permitted to rub together which results in pain, swelling, and bone damage. Osteoarthritis affects approximately one in seven, and may develop at any age. The severity of this condition varies, however common symptoms include:

• Joint Soreness
• Pain Due to Inactivity
• Joint Enlargement
• Joint Swelling

Osteoarthritis may be caused by several factors. These include:

• Genetics: Born with defective cartilage or joint abnormalities

• Overweight: Excess weight increases risk of developing osteoarthritis in knees and hips

• Injury: Athletes are at higher risk of developing condition in knees, hips, and spine

• Joint Overuse: May result from constant bending of the knees, such as when lifting heavy objects.

Physicians generally diagnose osteoarthritis with blood test and X-rays. Bloods test help doctors determine which type of arthritis a patient has developed, whereas X-rays are effective with pinpointing damaged areas. The pain from osteoarthritis can be managed with anti-inflammatory medications. In addition, sufferers have effectively relieved pain with heating pads and ice packs. Strategies for treating osteoarthritis include:

• Exercise 20 to 30 Minutes Daily
• Good Body Posture
• Yoga/ Meditation
• Sleep on a Firm Mattress
• Lose Weight

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammation in the tissues lining the joint. As the condition progresses, tissues surrounding bones, ligaments, and cartilage completely deteriorate. Rheumatoid arthritis may affect any part of the body; however common problems areas include hands, wrist, and knees. Although rare, it is possible for arthritis to affect the lungs, skin, heart, and kidney. Ordinarily, this condition develops in adults between the ages of 20 and 50. However, children may also be affected. In most cases, the disease is not as severe in the beginning, and patients eventually enter remission. Nonetheless, the disease does affect everyone differently, thus some who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis remain in constant pain as the condition rapidly progresses. Additionally, the disease tends to worsen with age. Thus, many who are able to cope with rheumatoid at a young age may discover their mobility slowing or decreasing as they become older. Physicians are unable to pinpoint an exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis, yet many suggest that numerous factors, including genetics, environmental, and hormonal may contribute to arthritis. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Joint Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Fatigue

Anti-inflammatory medications also effectively treat pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, sufferers are encouraged to engage in regular exercise and get the proper amount of sleep. Exercise will help maintain flexible joints, whereas rest will soothe inflammation. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, still, patients who receive medical treatment will avoid joint damage and prevent disabilities.

Gout

Gout is another form of arthritis that affects approximately 1 million Americans. Gout causes sudden, severe pain in joints. Pain is generally accompanied with redness, swelling, and inflammation. Gout may affect joints in the legs or arms, but commonly affects the toes. Symptoms of gout include:

• Sudden, Extreme Joint Pain
• Swollen Joints
• Red or Purple Colored Skin

Gout is primarily caused by eating certain types of foods, or over consumption of wine. High levels of uric acids in the joints cause pain and swelling. Many foods contain large amounts of this acid. Ordinarily, the kidneys will breakout down this material and rid the body of it. In rare cases, a small portion of this acid remains in the body and is released into the blood stream, thus increasing a persons risk of developing gout. Gout attacks are very sporadic. Some will suffer from the condition once, whereas others may have recurring gout attacks. Repeated attacks will eventually damage joints, and should be treated. Many have been able to manage gout attacks by eliminating certain foods from their diet. Additionally, gout can be successfully controlled with medications. Strategies for treating gout include:

• Avoid Excessive Amount of Alcohol
• Maintain Healthy Body Weight
• Drink Plenty of Water
• Rest

Preventing Arthritis

There is plenty we can do to protect our joints, which could decrease the odds of developing any form of arthritis. These include simple techniques such as relaxing, balanced activity, exercising in moderation, properly lifting objects, practicing good posture when sitting and standing, and protecting joints during the winter months. Importantly, those who are overweight by as little as 10 lbs should reduce their weight. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of developing arthritis by half. Being overweight strands the joints, meanwhile exercise will strength and protect joints. Individuals who are newly diagnosed with arthritis should implement the following changes to avoid further damage to joints.