Introduction to Arthritis

Arthritis is a general term for many diseases that produce either inflammation of connective tissues, particularly in the joints, or non-inflammatory degeneration of these tissues. The word arthritis literally means, "joint inflammation". Arthritis may be caused by a number of conditions, and may be acute or chronic. In acute arthritis, the joints become swollen, red, tender and warm to the tough. In chronic, they tend to become stiff and may develop deformities. Arthritis varies greatly from person to person and from one disease to another. Their effects vary from a slight pain, stiffness, and swelling to crippling and disability. Therapies also vary from a warm bath and massage, to changes in life style, to combinations of anti-arthritic drugs or surgery.

Types of Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): The etiology of RA is unknown, although it may be due to an autoimmune reaction. It is the most painful and potentially crippling of the arthritic diseases, the synovial membrane of a freely movable joint becomes inflamed and grows thicker. This change is usually followed by damage to the articular cartilage on the ends of the bones and an invasion of the joint by fibrous tissues. These fibrous tissues increasingly interfere with joint movements, and in time these tissues may become ossified so that the articulating bones are fused together.
Osteoarthritis (OA): is caused by a degenerative disease that occurs as a result of aging. The articular cartilage softens and disintegrates gradually so that the articular surfaces become roughened. Consequently, the joints are sore and less movement is possible. It is most likely to affect joints that have received the greatest use over the years, such as those in the knees and the lower regions of the vertebral column.
Gout: is a metabolic disease in which excessive uric acid in the blood may be deposited in the joints, causing them to become inflamed, swollen and painful.
Coping with Arthritis

Arthritis should be diagnosed and treated by a qualified physician or specialist. The patient should get sufficient rest, particularly during periods when joints are painful and inflamed. Proper therapeutic exercises, individually prescribed for the specific condition, are also very important for the maintenance of joint function and strengthening the muscles that support the joints.

There is no special diet for arthritis, except when talking about the weight control of arthritis patients, to prevent putting too much weight on the joints. The only known relationship between food and arthritis is with gout, where a diet heavy in purines will increase the chances of an attack. Patients with gout should avoid sweet breads, alcohol and internal organs of animals.

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