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Arthritis (from Greek
arthro-, joint + -itis, inflammation) is a group of
conditions that affect the health of the bone joints in the body. One in
three adult Americans suffer from some form of arthritis and the disease
affects about twice as many women as men.
Arthritic diseases include rheumatoid
arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, which are autoimmune diseases; septic
arthritis, caused by joint infection; and the more common
osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease. Arthritis can be caused
from strains and injuries caused by repetitive motion, sports,
overexertion, and falls. Unlike the autoimmune diseases, osteoarthritis
largely affects older people and results from the degeneration of joint
cartilage.
Arthritic joints can be sensitive
to weather changes. The increased sensitivity is thought to be caused by
the affected joints developing extra nerve endings in an attempt to
protect the joint from further damage.
Treatment options vary depending
on the precise condition, but include; drug treatment, reduction of
joint stress, physical and occupational therapy, and pain management. |
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