Joint Pain / Arthritis
Arthritis is essentially inflammation of one or more joints. There are many forms of arthritis (currently over 100 different types), and it can affect people of all ages, sexes, and races. Arthritis can be caused by an injury, genetics, viral/bacterial infections, or autoimmune disorders.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between the joints breaks down (degenerates) over time, and for this reason, it is commonly referred to as “wear and tear” or degenerative arthritis. OA typically occurs in the spine, knees, hips, and hands. It is a chronic condition that causes pain, stiffness, loss of flexibility, and tenderness.
Arthritis symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may cause permanent damage to the joint. The pain associated with arthritis is usually constant and can create strains on the muscles connected to the affected joint. This can ultimately limit mobility and the ability to participate in certain activities. Treatments can help patients manage arthritis pain so that they are able to more easily participate in their normal activities.