Description

The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but there are many other forms as well. Here's an overview of these two common types: Osteoarthritis (OA): 1. Description: Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in joints gradually wears down over time. 2. Symptoms: Common symptoms of OA include joint pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and swelling. It most commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine, as well as the hands and fingers. 3. Causes: Risk factors for OA include aging, joint injury, genetics, obesity, and overuse of joints. 4. Treatment: Treatment for OA aims to manage symptoms, improve joint function, and slow the progression of the disease. It may involve medications (pain relievers, anti-inflammatories), physical therapy, lifestyle modifications (exercise, weight management), assistive devices, and in some cases, joint injections or surgery. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): 1. Description: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium (the lining of the membranes that surround the joints), leading to inflammation and joint damage. 2. Symptoms: RA typically causes joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue. It often affects multiple joints, including those in the hands, wrists, knees, and feet. 3. Causes: The exact cause of RA is not known, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. 4. Treatment: Treatment for RA focuses on reducing inflammation, managing pain, preserving joint function, and preventing joint damage. Other types of arthritis include psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, among others.