Rheumatoid arthritis

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition affecting the joints and bones progressively. It causes pain, inflammation in joints, and decreased mobility. There are several types of arthritis categorized into one of two groups: Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. 

 

Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is correlated with the use of joints, their deteriorating health, and how they affect the cartilage around the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that impacts healthy connective tissue. 

What does Osteoarthritis feel like?

  • symptoms of Osteoarthritis:

    • Swelling of affected joints
    • Pain that worsens gradually after usage of joints
    • Stiffness and restricted movement, pain, creaking
    • Joint deformity
    • Weakened muscles around affected joints

How can Osteoarthritis be managed?

  • Treatments for Osteoarthritis:

    • Physiotherapy
    • Acupuncture
    • Massage Therapy
    • Chiropractor
    • Active Rehabilitation

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis is a progressive, chronic, and inflammatory disorder. It is an autoimmune condition that is present when the patient’s immune system attacks their connective tissues. It affects the lining of the joints and surrounding tissue, causing painful swelling and inflammation, muscle weakness, loss of mobility, tendon/ligament rupture, deformity of joints, and bone erosion. 


     Joints that are affected by rheumatoid arthritis include: fingers, wrists, elbows, shoulders, ankles, hips, knees, and spinal joints. As the autoimmune disorder progresses, the patient’s joints may become deformed, eroded, or shift out of place.

What does Rheumatoid Arthritis feel like?

  • Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis:

    • Swollen or inflamed joints which are warm and tender
    • Chronic pain
    • Joint stiffness which worsens after periods of inactivity
    • Weight loss
    • Fever
    • Fatigue

How can Rheumatoid Arthritis be managed?

  • Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis:

    • Physiotherapy
    • Acupuncture
    • Brace Application
    • Medications and antirheumatic drugs