What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. It affects people of all ages and can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. There are over 100 types of arthritis, with the most common being osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative joint disease caused by wear and tear on the cartilage, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced joint flexibility. It commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining, causing chronic inflammation, pain, and joint deformity.

Symptoms of Arthritis

  • Joint pain and tenderness

  • Swelling and stiffness, especially in the morning

  • Decreased range of motion

  • Warmth and redness around the joint (in inflammatory types like RA)

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Age: Risk increases with age

  • Genetics: Family history may play a role

  • Injury: Joint injuries can lead to arthritis later in life

  • Obesity: Extra weight puts stress on joints

  • Autoimmune response: In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues

Treatment & Management

While there is no cure for arthritis, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

  • Chiropractic care & physical therapy – Helps improve joint mobility and reduce pain

  • Exercise & weight management – Strengthens muscles around joints and reduces strain

  • Medications – Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and in some cases, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

  • Lifestyle modifications – Heat/cold therapy, assistive devices, and stress management

If you’re experiencing joint pain or stiffness, it’s important to seek professional advice to develop a tailored treatment plan.