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Many people are affected by some form of Arthritis, which can range from temporary discomfort to a more serious disability, but medical help and physiotherapy can do much to relieve the condition.
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints and its causes are as varied and mysterious as the condition itself. It affects people of all ages and is a common complaint in temperate climates. It can be mild or severe, affecting one joint or several. The different types include rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, rigid spine disease and arthritis that has been brought on by an injury. Although its study is a well established specialty, called rheumatology, medical research cannot yet tell us all the answers. Here are some types of arthritis and their treatment:
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Cause: Auto immune, chain of reactions in body.
Symptoms: Lethargy, high temperature, rash
Treatment: Anti-inflammatory drugs, painkilling drugs, gold injections or steroid drugs. Immediate hospital treatment for children. Reducing swelling by drawing off of fluid. Physiotherapy, exercise, and joint replacement.
Osteoarthritis
Cause: Wear and tear due to ageing. Degeneration of cartilage over joint.
Symptoms: Pain, followed by stiffness, swelling, change of shape.
Treatment: Basic principals as above.
Ankylosing spondylitis
Cause: Auto immune, possibly hereditary, more common in males between 15 and 30. Calcium deposited in joint ligaments.
Symptoms: Stiff lower back in mornings. Pain on bending spine.
Treatment: Anti inflammatory drugs, exercise.
Traumatic
Cause: Injury or falling heavy.
Symptoms: Joint becomes inflamed, painful and swollen a few hours after injury.
Treatment: Rest, bandaging, painkilling drugs, then physiotherapy. X-ray in case of fracture.
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