What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and damage in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement. It is one of the most common causes of chronic joint pain and can affect people of all ages, although it is more frequent as we grow older.

Types of Arthritis

There are over 100 different forms of arthritis, but the most common include:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): “Wear-and-tear” arthritis caused by gradual breakdown of joint cartilage, usually affecting knees, hips, and spine.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joints, leading to swelling, pain, and deformity.

• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis that develops after an injury or fracture involving a joint.

• Gout: Caused by excess uric acid in the blood, leading to sudden, painful swelling in joints (commonly the big toe).

• Other Forms: Such as psoriatic arthritis, juvenile arthritis, and infectious arthritis.

Risk Factors for Arthritis

Certain factors increase the chances of developing arthritis:

• Age: Risk increases as we get older.

• Gender: Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more prone to gout.

• Family History: Genetics can make some people more susceptible.

• Previous Joint Injuries: Old injuries or fractures can lead to arthritis later in life.

• Obesity: Excess weight puts stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

• Lifestyle: Lack of exercise, poor diet, and smoking may increase risk.

Symptoms & Signs of Arthritis

Arthritis symptoms vary depending on the type, but common signs include:

• Joint pain and tenderness

• Swelling and stiffness

• Reduced range of motion

• Grinding or clicking sounds from the joint

• Warmth or redness around the joint (in inflammatory types)

• Deformities in advanced stages

Diagnosis

At OSSO Speciality Clinic, arthritis is diagnosed using:

• Clinical examination to assess joint movement and pain

• X-rays to detect joint space narrowing or bone changes

• Blood tests to identify autoimmune causes like rheumatoid arthritis or gout

• MRI/CT scans in complex or early cases

Treatment Options

Our arthritis treatments are tailored to each patient’s needs and stage of disease:

• Lifestyle Modification: Weight management, exercise, and posture correction to reduce strain on joints.

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and disease-modifying medications for autoimmune types.

• Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections to reduce inflammation and improve movement.

• Physiotherapy: Strengthening and flexibility exercises to maintain joint health.

• Minimally Invasive Procedures: For pain relief and improved function.

• Joint Replacement Surgery (Robotics): For advanced arthritis where conservative treatments no longer work, robotic-assisted replacements ensure precise alignment and long-lasting results.