Arthritis 2018-01-22T14:51:55+00:00

Project Description

Arthritis
Arthritis
Back to All Conditions

Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, but there are other types, another type being rheumatoid arthritis which is more severe. There are over 200 other types of arthritis including gout and Systemic lupus erythematosis (lupus).

Arthritis is more common amongst older people, but it can also affect children. Around 1 in 1,000 children develop arthritis, which in children is called juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between the bones wastes away, gradually, which can lead to the bones rubbing together, causing pain. It can also cause joints to fall out of their normal positions.

A person with rheumatoid arthritis’ immune system attacks and destroys the joint, causing pain and swelling, eventually leading to the breakdown of bone and cartilage and a reduction in the movement of the joint.

What causes it?

Osteoarthritis cause is still unknown, it is thought it could be genetic in some people, but this has not yet been proven. It is thought however, that jobs that involve repetitive movement on a joint, obesity and previous damage to the joint can contribute significantly to developing osteoarthritis.

It is known how rheumatoid arthritis is caused and we know that it can be inherited genetically, from a previous family member. It is caused by a fault in the immune system that forces the body to attack its own tissues.

How can we help?

Each individual will have a different need. Therefore, our physiotherapists will create individual treatment plans and management advice / techniques will be provided for you, which are essential. It is important to begin treatment as soon as possible after the symptoms of arthritis start. This is vital in order to reduce further damage to the joints and to try and prevent any pain that may be caused to you from arthritis.