Arthritis encompasses over 100 diseases that affect the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling by altering the cartilage. Cartilage, which covers bone ends, enables smooth joint motion. As arthritis progresses, cartilage may wear away, leading to painful bone-on-bone friction. Though manageable with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, surgical intervention may become necessary.

ANATOMY

Bones, supporting our structure and forming joints, have cartilage for smooth movement. Synovium lines joints, secreting synovial fluid as a lubricant. Ligaments and tendons provide stability and movement power, both lined with synovium.

CAUSES

Arthritis, with over 100 types, results from aging, trauma, autoimmune or inflammatory diseases. Osteoarthritis, affecting 21 million Americans, erodes cartilage, causing bone spurs and pain. Rheumatoid Arthritis, a serious autoimmune condition, inflames synovium, leading to joint deterioration.

SYMPTOMS

Inflammation causes persistent pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, and reduced joint stability, impacting daily activities.

DIAGNOSIS

Physical exams, blood tests, and imaging (X-rays, MRI, bone scan) aid diagnosis by revealing joint conditions and abnormalities.

TREATMENT

Non-surgical options include rest, pain relievers, cortisone injections, viscosupplementation (FDA-approved for knees), physical therapy, acupuncture, and dietary supplements. Exercise programs like yoga and Pilates alleviate symptoms.

SURGERY

As arthritis progresses, surgery may be necessary. Options include synovectomy, osteotomy, joint fusion, or joint replacement with artificial joints made of metal, plastic, ceramics, or a combination.

RECOVERY

Recovery varies based on surgery type and joint involvement. Traditional surgeries take months, while minimally invasive procedures have shorter recovery times. Rehabilitation is crucial for joint mobilization and strengthening.

PREVENTION

Prevention involves understanding arthritis type and adopting measures like weight management, proper body mechanics, assistive devices, and aquatic therapy to minimize stress on joints.

Bones are the hardest tissues in your body. Although bones are strong, they can split or break under too much pressure or force. A broken bone is called a fracture. Fractures can occur in a variety of ways. The most common causes of fractures are injuries, prolonged stress from overuse, and bone weakening diseases, such as Osteoporosis or tumors.

There are many types of fractures. They can range from a hairline crack to a bone that has broken into several pieces. Simple fractures may only require casting or splinting treatments. More complex fractures may need surgical intervention to align the bones for proper healing.

Sprains and strains are common injuries that can happen to anyone, but occur most frequently in people who participate in sports, perform repetitive activities, or are at-risk for falls. Sprains involve the tissues that connect bones together (ligaments). Strains involve a different group of tissues, muscles and the tendons that connect muscles to bones. Mild sprains and strains can heal with rest and home care. Significant sprains and strains may require rehabilitation, surgery, or both.

Tendonitis is an inflammatory condition that can develop in a tendon. Tendons are strong fibers that connect your muscles to your bones. Tendonitis most frequently results from overuse of a joint. Symptoms include pain and tenderness. Most cases of tendonitis are relieved with rest and anti-inflammatory medications. Chronic tendonitis may require surgery if symptoms are intolerable despite nonoperative treatment.