Arthritis is a not a single disease, it is a term used to describe many conditions that affect the joints. Arthritis can affect any and all joints. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, the wear and tear that most people associate with the normal aging process. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disorder in which the immune system attacks the body’s tissues, particularly the joints. In both types of arthritis, the joints become inflamed and cartilage may be destroyed. In rheumatoid arthritis, however, the immune system affects not only the joints, but also the supporting structures such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Although aging is most often associated with osteoarthritis, the risk of developing the condition may be increased by excess stress on the joint, such as from repeated injury, deformity, or if a person is overweight. Osteoarthritis most often affects middle-aged and older people. A young person who develops osteoarthritis may have an inherited form of the disease or may have experienced continuous irritation from an unrepaired torn meniscus or other injury. Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects people at an earlier age than osteoarthritis. 

The symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, and a decrease in joint motion. Morning stiffness that lessens after moving around is very common. Over time, the problem may become disabling, causing such extreme pain and stiffness that a person’s ability to perform routine daily activities is reduced.

There is no cure for arthritis, but the past decade has seen dramatic new ways to manage the pain, lack of mobility, and fatigue that are among its most disabling symptoms. During the early and middle stages of the disease, a treatment program of medicines, cortisone shots, ice treatments, exercise, and physical therapy can be very effective in reducing symptoms and improving mobility.

  • Medicines. Coated aspirin helps relieve pain and has few side effects. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are often prescribed for pain and inflammation. Aspirin should not be taken with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Cortisone Shots. Cortisone or steroid injections are given for inflammation and, in selected cases, can offer relief of symptoms temporarily. However, in advanced arthritic conditions, these injections are not usually helpful for any length of time.
  • Ice Treatments. Ice packs on the knee (three times daily, 10-20 minutes at a time) are helpful for inflammation and temporary relief of pain and soreness. Heat applications in either the knee or hip may not be as helpful as ice.
  • Diet. There is no evidence that any specific foods will prevent or relieve arthritis symptoms. It's important to keep excess weight off, however, because it aggravates arthritis by putting added pressure on the knees.
  • Exercise and Rest. Prolonged rest and days of inactivity will increase stiffness and make it harder to move around. Motion is lotion for arthritis! At the same time, excessive or improper exercise can overwork the arthritic joint and cause further damage. A balanced routine of rest and exercise is best.
    • Arthroscopy procedures are not generally helpful for arthritis. In some cases, a "flap" of torn knee cartilage can aggravate arthritis and cause additional pain. This cartilage flap can be removed with arthroscopic surgery. This can help the mechanical symptoms of arthritis at least temporarily. If the alignment of the knee is abnormal, a wedge of bone can be removed to restore a more normal weight bearing alignment. This is called a tibial osteotomy. The operation is an option which may "buy time" and delay the need for a knee replacement in some cases.

    Knee or hip replacement is a very positive solution to alleviate the pain and disability of advanced osteoarthritis. The rough, worn surfaces of the joint are re-lined with smooth-surfaced metal and plastic component.

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