Understanding Different Types of Arthritis

Arthritis, more than a medical condition is a journey of pain, inflammation and decreased mobility. Did you know that there are more than 100 types of arthritis? This blog will explore the most common forms of arthritis. We will focus on those that affect hands, fingers, shoulders, lower back, and knees.

Types of arthritis

Osteoarthritis

It is the most common form of arthritis. The cartilage that cushions and protects the ends of the bones becomes worn down with time. This is a degenerative and inflammatory disease that can cause almost total destruction of the joints. OA is a degenerative disease that can affect any joint, but it most commonly occurs in the hands, knees, hips and spine.

Osteoarthritis symptoms include joint swelling, stiffness, muscle weakness, deformities, and joint deformities.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

RA, a chronic autoimmune disease, is characterized by an immune system that attacks the synovium (the lining of the membranes surrounding the joints). This can cause inflammation and joint damage. As the disease progresses, the inflammation can spread to other organs and cause systemic complications.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is characterized by joint pain, stiffness and swelling.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

PsA is a skin and joint condition that's often associated with psoriasis. PsA can cause swelling, stiffness and joint pain. It is most commonly found in the hands, feet, wrists and ankles.

The other symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, red and scaly skin, changes in the nails (pitting, thickening or separation from the bed), changes in vision, enthesitis at the site where a tendon or ligament is located, dactylitis, (swelling or swelling of the whole fingers or toes), etc.

Learn more about the treatment of autoimmune diseases at Plexus.

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)

AS is a condition that primarily affects spines, causing inflammation. It can also lead to the fusion or vertebrae. This can lead to a forward-hunched posture and restricted mobility.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is characterized by back pain, neck discomfort, stiffness, fatigue and pain in other joints, such as the shoulders, knees, or ankles. Other symptoms include enthesitis (inflammation of the tendons), unintended weight-loss, decreased mobility, etc.

Gout

The buildup of uric crystals in joints causes sudden, severe pain, swelling and redness. Commonly, the big toe will be affected.

Gout symptoms include joint pain and inflammation, swelling and warmth around the inflammation, restricted range of motion, fever and nighttime pain.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

JIA, formerly known as juvenile arthritis, is a chronic condition that affects children younger than 16. There are several subtypes of JIA, each with their own distinct characteristics.

Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis may experience joint pain, stiffness, redness and warmth around the inflammation area, fatigue, fever and rash.

Lupus-Associated Arthritis

Lupus, an autoimmune disorder, can cause arthritis. Joints, skin, blood cells and kidneys can all be affected.

Lupus-associated arthritis is characterized by morning stiffness, photosensitivity and fatigue. Other symptoms include hair loss, nasal or oral ulcers, kidney inflammation, skin rashes and joint swelling.

Reactive Arthritis

Reactive arthritis (also known as Reiter syndrome) can be triggered by an infection elsewhere in the body. The joints, eyes and urinary, genital and genital system are often affected.

Reactive arthritis is characterized by back pain, swelling of joints, conjunctivitis (inflammation), enthesitis (fever), mouth ulcers, urethritis(inflammation of urethra), fatigue, fever and other symptoms.

Septic Arthritis

Septic arthritis is caused by an infection of the joint. It can cause severe pain, swelling and redness. To prevent joint damage, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Septic arthritis is characterized by fever, joint swelling and pain, warmth and tenderness in the affected area, accumulation of fluids within the joints, increased pain when moving, and so on.

Each type of arthritis needs a customized treatment, whether it's the common osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, or the rare juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. Plexus offers customized regenerative rehab programs in our centres located in Bangalore and Hyderabad.

Learn about Plexus' stem cells rehabilitation for arthritis right here.

Contact our team in Bangalore or Hyderabad to book a consultation today.

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