Maxwell Ademeyi
ARTHRITIS REFERS to a variety of conditions that impact the joints in your body where two or more bones meet, like in your wrists, knuckles, hips, knees and ankles. This damage to the joints can cause varying degrees of pain and discomfort, affecting individuals of all age groups.
Arthritis is a condition characterised by inflammation and sensitivity in one or multiple joints. The primary indications of arthritis include joint discomfort and rigidity, which commonly increase as a person gets older.
The two most prevalent forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, which results in the deterioration of cartilage that cushions the joints, and rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system targets joint tissues, starting with the joint lining.
Types of arthritis
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition characterised by inflammation and damage in the joints. It occurs when the protective cartilage between bones wears away, leading to bone rubbing and causing pain, swelling and stiffness.
This can hinder daily activities like walking or climbing stairs. While it can affect any joint, it commonly impacts the knees, hips, fingers, toes, ankles and spine.
Symptoms
Symptoms of osteoarthritis typically develop gradually and worsen over time. These symptoms may include:
Pain: Pain in the joints may occur while moving or following physical activity.
Stiffness: Stiffness in the joints may be most apparent when first waking up or after a period of inactivity.
Tenderness: Tenderness in your joints may be felt when light pressure is applied to or near them.
Loss of flexibility: Loss or decreased flexibility may result in being unable to move your joints through their complete range of motion.
A grating sensation: The sensation of grating could be experienced when using joints, accompanied by popping or crackling sounds.
Bone spurs: Bone spurs, similar to hard lumps, can develop around joints.
Swelling in an affected joint: Swelling may occur due to inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding the joint.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Previously referred to as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, it is the most prevalent form of arthritis in children under 16 years old. It can result in ongoing discomfort, swelling and restricted movement in the joints.
The duration of symptoms can vary among children, with some experiencing them for a short period and others enduring them for an extended period of time.
Certain forms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis can lead to severe issues, including growth impairment, joint damage and eye inflammation. The approach to treatment involves managing pain and inflammation, enhancing functionality, and averting further harm.
The primary indicators of juvenile idiopathic arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, fever, swollen lymph nodes and rash. Children with this condition may exhibit symptoms like limping, joint swelling (especially in larger joints like the knee), clumsiness and fever, along with swollen lymph nodes and a rash on the trunk that worsen
