Different forms of arthritis manifest different symptoms. Common symptoms of arthritis include: persistent joint pain; tenderness in a joint which is aggravated by movement; inflammation indicated by joint swelling, stiffness, redness, and/or warmth; pain and stiffness in the body, especially around the joints; joint deformity; loss of range of motion or flexibility in a joint; unexplained weight loss; non-specific fever; and crepitus (weird crackling sound in the joints.)

There are over 100 different types of arthritis affecting approximately 46 million Americans today. The three most common types are: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Osteoarthritis is more commonly known as degenerative arthritis. This develops from a simple breakdown in the cartilage cushioning the joints, and may lead to an eventual loss of cartilages in one or more joints. Cartilage is a protein-based mass that serves as cushioning between the joints. This type of arthritis usually attacks weight-bearing joints such as the hands, feet, and spine. It is mostly related to aging and it usually progresses further as we age. It generally occurs in the age range of 45-60. Men are at higher risk for osteoarthritis before age 45. Women, however, are more prone to it around age 55 specifically around the hand, foot and knee joints. Severe cases of degenerative arthritis require total joint replacement, mostly of the hip and knee joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis may also affect different joints, and as previously mentioned, it may affect some body organs and even our blood. It mainly affects the synovial lining of the joint. The synovium is a soft tissue that lines the non-cartilaginous surfaces within joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can be developed as a secondary effect of an infection. In this case, the body’s autoimmune system malfunctions and attacks healthy joint tissue, causing inflammation and joint damage. Although it is not as degenerative as osteoarthritis, it may cause joint deformity in a mild level.

Gout is caused by displacement of uric acid crystal in the joints. Also known as hyperuricemia, which literally translates as high uric acid content in the blood, it is a metabolic ailment wherein uric acid builds up in the blood and crystallizes in the joints of the body. Chronic gout attacks may lead to hard lumps of uric acid deposits around the joints, and in the process decrease kidney functions and form kidney stones.

There are different kinds of treatment for the different forms of arthritis. There are medications available that aid in arthritis pain relief. Antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used as relieve pain and decrease inflammation on affected areas. They have to be paired with constant visits to a physical or occupational therapist to ensure that mobility and range of motion is maintained.

Arthritis isn’t just a simple joint pain that we can disregard. The pain alone is difficult to ignore, let alone the complications it will bring if it remains untreated. Nobody is safe from developing arthritis as there are forms that have yet to be defined. The bottom line is, take care of your body – be mindful of your diet and exercise consistently. This alone will greatly reduce your chances of developing this distressing condition.

Rheumatoid arthritis most often affects the wrist and finger joints closest to the hand, but can also affect joints in the feet and throughout the body. Anyone can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis, but women are more likely to develop symptoms. These most often begin between the ages of 20 and 30. The causes of rheumatoid arthritis are not yet understood, but many effective strategies have been developed to manage the symptoms.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms and Signs
The main symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is joint stiffness in the morning, often in the hands or feet. Stiffness that persists for an hour or more, or swelling and pain that lasts for more than six weeks, may be indicative of rheumatoid arthritis. Joint discomfort is typically symmetrical, i.e. both hands will hurt or feel stiff, not just one. Early rheumatoid arthritis symptoms also may include fever, excessive tiredness, or pea-sized lumps called “nodules” that can be felt under the skin.

Other possible rheumatoid arthritis symptoms include anemia, appetite loss and the accumulation of fluid in the ankles or behind the knee. In children, symptoms may include shaking chills and a pink rash which may follow the characteristic painful and swollen joints.

You may experience stiffness or pain in one or more of your joints. You will usually experience this pain in the neck, knees, fingers or hips, but your toes and elbows can also become affected. This stiffness or pain may be more apparent on waking or after sitting for long periods of time. As the joints naturally loosen with use, the pain may ease during the day, but may return in the evening.

The joints may become hot or swollen, and in the event of Osteoporosis bony growths may develop, usually on the knuckles.

As the condition progresses, every day activities such as opening bottles, turning taps or even walking can become affected. Activity can aggravate pain and swelling, and sleep can be disturbed. The pain and stiffness may limit the range of motion in the affected joint.

Some people experience other symptoms such as general tiredness or exhaustion, or unexplained fever. Most forms of arthritis tend to develop after the age of 40, although the condition can develop earlier.

As arthritis is a progressive condition, these symptoms are likely to worsen over time. If you do experience one or more of these symptoms consistently, visit your doctor for a possible diagnosis.

Hip arthritis can differ from other forms of arthritis in that it does not always follow a natural progression; sufferers report that the severity of symptoms can fluctuate month by month, and that these can be influenced by the weather and climatic conditions. This means that it can be difficult to determine the progression of hip arthritis.

Hip arthritis generally affects those over 50 years old. People who are overweight tend to be at greater risk of developing it, and excess weight can exacerbate the symptoms. Past injuries or trauma to the area, or fractures to bones around the hip joint, can be contributory factors in developing hip arthritis. There is also thought to be a genetic link.

Symptoms of hip arthritis are; pain and stiffness in the hip area, particularly on exertion, affected walking gait and a limited range of motion in the hip.

If you suspect that you may be suffering from hip arthritis, consult your doctor, who should carry out a physical examination and arrange for x-rays to be taken to determine the extent of the condition.

Treatment;
Anti-Inflammatory medication (NSAIDS) may be prescribed to reduce symptoms such as pain and inflammation. These can include prescription medications or non prescription medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

Corticosteroids (symptom-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs or SMARDS) may be prescribed. These can be taken orally, applied to the skin in cream or gel form or given by injection.

Lifestyle changes such as weight loss could be beneficial in reducing symptoms and pressure on the joints, and can help to prevent hip arthritis developing.

Walking aids may help mobility and reduce pressure on the joint, such as a stick or cane used in the opposite hand.

You may need to limit activities which cause pain, although certain activities may be beneficial, such as swimming, which supports the joints. There may be certain exercises you can carry out to strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip joint and improve flexibility- a physiotherapist may work with you to devise a suitable exercise program.

Surgery may be required in advanced cases of hip arthritis. The most common types of surgery preformed are;

•    Total hip replacement, involving the replacement of the ball and socket joint with a metal and plastic joint. This can be particularly useful for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers.

•    If the arthritis has only affected the lining of the joint rather than the cartilage, Synovectomy surgery may be offered (removal of part or all of the joint lining).

•    An operation to reduce bone marrow pressure and increase the flow of the blood, known as Core Decompression, may be suitable in some cases.

Whilst rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, osteoarthritis is generally caused by wear and tear to the joints in the body over the years. The joints are protected by cartilage and other tissues, which are able to repair and heal themselves on a daily basis.

However, as we age, the cartilage becomes brittle and less able to repair itself. This can cause it to wear away, causing arthritis. This is why arthritis is common amongst the older population.

Injury; a major injury can result in arthritis, as damage to the joints can be irreparable. Illnesses to the joints, such as Septic Joint, can also result in arthritis developing.

It is thought that some forms of arthritis can be hereditary. Although not much research has been done in this area, genetics do appear to play a part in developing arthritis or the severity of symptoms, particularly rheumatoid arthritis.

Prolonged heavy use of joints, such as undertaking certain high impact sports or a particularly strenuous occupation, can put an individual at slightly greater risk of developing arthritis later in life. Having a poor posture or ‘stoop’ can also have an effect.

Individual who are overweight are more likely to develop arthritis, as increased pressure is placed on load bearing joints, such as the knees and the hips. A poor diet can also increase risk, as certain foods such as foods containing caffeine can reduce the calcium levels in the body. Calcium is essential for maintaining a healthy bone structure.
Fried or processed foods can release free radicals into the body; although these occur in the body naturally, an excess of them can damage joint tissues. A poor diet can also reduce the amount of synovial fluid, which is naturally produced by the body to lubricate the joints. Dehydration can affect joint cartilage, particularly in the spine, fingers and knees; arthritis sufferers who increased their water intake have reported an improvement and reduction in the severity of symptoms.

Smoking can also reduce the body’s calcium levels and contribute to the risk of developing arthritis. It is also believed that certain allergies or pollutants can leave certain individuals at risk of developing the condition.

Understanding the cause of arthritis can give more of an idea of how best to treat the condition, or prevent arthritis from developing.

Symptoms; You may notice increased stiffness in the spine, which can be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. There will also be pain, which may be exacerbated by movement and which may come and go. There may be additional pain or numbness in the neck, shoulders, arms or legs, including the Sciatic nerve.

Movement of the spine may be limited and you may find bending difficult. In extreme cases, the spine may become deformed. Often, bony growths occur which can form ‘spurs’, which can cause increased pain or restriction of movement. You may also notice a ‘crunching’ or clicking sound or sensation on moving.

If the arthritis develops in the lower spinal region, it can affect the nerves to the legs and buttocks. Arthritis in the cervical area can similarly affect the arms and shoulders.

If you think you may have spinal arthritis, consult your doctor, who may refer you for an x-ray for diagnosis and the extent of the damage.

Treatment; As with other forms of arthritis, there is currently no known cure, but a range of treatments are available to relieve symptoms.

Medications which may be prescribed include anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids or painkillers.

Losing excess weight will help to reduce pressure on the spine and soft tissue. Diet can be important; eating calcium and nutrient rich foods can help maintain bone density and strength and slow the rate of deterioration. Exercise has also proven beneficial in improving flexibility and relieving pain. A health professional or physiotherapist should be able to put together a suitable exercise or diet program for you.

Heat or ice treatment applied regularly has also proved to relieve pain and discomfort in sufferers.

Arthritis of the spine can cause the invertebral discs within the spine to deteriorate, which may then require further treatment. The joints of the spine can be affected by formation of bony growths on the spine, which may be removed by surgery.

Having spinal arthritis need not restrict you. A lot of people experience only minimal symptoms, and pain can be managed with appropriate medication and support.

It is possible to identify Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) in its early stages if you learn how to recognise the common symptoms of this condition. RA usually starts with one or more symptoms which can change over time with its progression.

RA often starts in middle age, but can also develop in younger people and even children. It causes inflammation of the joint linings (synovium), which results in excessive joint fluid being produced, causing stiffness, pain, characteristic swelling and loss of joint function. In worse cases, it can cause inflammation of the lining of the lungs, heart and surrounding blood vessels. RA can also cause the glands around the mouth and eyes to become inflamed, causing dryness- this is known as Sjogren’s syndrome.

RA can be notoriously difficult to diagnose as symptoms can differ from one person to the other, and can mimic other health conditions such as fibromyalgia. The full range of symptoms which may be experienced tend to develop over a period of time. The most common symptoms to be aware of are;

Joint pain which may come and go; joint stiffness, especially on waking or after a prolonged period of rest; swelling to the soft tissue areas of the joint and unusual feelings of warmth or redness in the joints. Sufferers may also experience feelings of fatigue. One symptom that appears to be typical of RA is joint symmetry pain- that is, if symptoms occur in one of the joints on one side of the body, the same symptoms may occur in the corresponding joint on the other side of the body.

Joints most likely to be affected are those in the hands, fingers and wrists, but RA can attack any joints in the body. As the condition advances, sufferers can develop hard, tender lumps under the skin, known as arthritic nodules. These can vary in size but are not usually painful, although they can occasionally become infected.

If you suspect you may have RA, see your doctor in the first instance. He may refer you for tests and x-rays to diagnose the condition and determine the extent of its progression. Although there is no cure for RA at present, there are a variety of different treatments available to alleviate the symptoms and inflammation, and slow the rate of joint damage. Although it is classed as a chronic condition, symptoms can vary in severity and can come and go, with many people experiencing periods of remission when they are relatively symptom free.

With the right treatment, there is no reason why RA sufferers cannot continue to follow a full and active lifestyle.

Known as rheumatoid nodules, they can cause complications such as limited joint mobility, pain, ulceration, neuropathy and infection. Although they are not usually painful, they can cause problems if they are located in an area subject to a lot of use, such as hands or feet.
Rheumatoid nodules can be removed by surgery, but if they are found in an area of repeated use or trauma, they can return within a few months. Intranodular steroid injections can be effective in reducing the size of the nodule.

Osteoarthritis can cause a different type of nodule; enlargements of the last joints of the fingers. These are known as Heberden’s Nodules, and development can be affected by genetic factors.

The middle joints of the fingers may also be affected, known as Bouchard’s Nodules. The joint where the hand and wrist meet can also become enlarged, giving the hand a somewhat squared appearance.

Initially these ‘nodules’ are filled with a gel- like substance known as mucin, and can be painful or tender to touch. In time they may harden and become boney in texture.

They typically develop in middle age, and symptoms can include a redness of the joints, or swelling. This can be followed by numbness or loss of dexterity. Once the nodules are formed, the pain and initial swelling usually subsides, but can leave the fingers deformed.
Heberden’s and Bouchard’s nodules are more likely to develop in women.

Symptoms
Early symptoms of arthritis in the knee include stiffness in the knee joint, limited range of motion, swelling and tenderness and noticeable deformities of the joint, particularly if one side of the joint is damaged more than the other. These early symptoms may come and go, and vary in severity. If you suspect that you have arthritis in your knee, you should visit your GP who should undertake a thorough physical examination and take X-rays of the joint, which should not only confirm diagnosis but track the progression of the arthritis, essential in determining how best to treat it.

Treatments
As with every type of arthritis, treatment prescribed will vary on the severity of the condition. Your doctor may prescribe a range of medication to treat the condition and associated pain and swelling. You may also receive cortisone injections or physiotherapy. Some people find taking supplements beneficial, such as Glucosamine Sulphate, as this stimulates the body’s natural product of Glucosamine to maintain and repair joint cartilage. If you are overweight, reducing excess weight may help to relieve the strain on overburdened joints.

In more extreme cases, surgery may be a solution; there are several different procedures which could be tried.  A Knee Osteotomy may be suitable for those who suffer arthritis on one side of the knee joint as the bone is cut and then reorientated so that the load bearing stresses are reduced on the damaged part of the joint. This procedure is not suitable for those with rheumatoid arthritis or widespread knee arthritis.  Knee Arthroscopy is a type of keyhole surgery, used to look inside and treat the knee joint.as required but may not be suitable for more extensive work. Other corrective surgery options would be partial or total knee replacement surgery, where artificial knee parts made of metal and/ or plastic are used to replace joints worn away by arthritis. Knee replacement operations generally last for at least 10- 15 years.

Symptoms The most common signs of shoulder arthritis are a  stiffness of the shoulder, limited range of motion of the shoulder joint, swelling around the joint area, and pain on moving the shoulder. There may also be a grinding feeling within the joint, or a feeling that something’s ‘catching’. These symptoms can vary in severity and tend to progress as the arthritis become worse. Interestingly though, the symptoms of shoulder arthritis do not always follow a logical progression; they can come and go from one month to another and often appear to be influenced by weather cycles.

Shoulder arthritis tends to be more prevalent in people of middle age, or in those who may have suffered a shoulder injury in the past. It has also been proven that there is a genetic link to arthritis of the shoulder. If you suspect that you may have shoulder arthritis your doctor should send you for an x-ray to confirm this and determine how advanced the disease is.

Treatment
There are various types of treatment for shoulder arthritis, depending on the nature and severity of the condition;

Certain shoulder exercises to strengthen the joint and surrounding areas may prove beneficial. This will also increase muscular strength and maintain the functional use of the joint. You may need to limit some activities that exacerbate the symptoms.
Supplements such as Glucosamine have been known to reduce inflammation and resultant joint pain.

Pain killers such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin may reduce pain and inflammation. You may also be prescribed Anti-Inflammatory Pain Medication (NSAIDS) such as Cox-2 Inhibitors.
Cortisone injections into the affected joint can diminish the symptoms of arthritis, although they are not a cure for the condition.

In certain cases, surgery may be an option. The main types of surgery which may be offered are;

Shoulder Arthroscopy, where the surgeon can look inside the shoulder joint and perform minor corrections.

Shoulder replacement surgery, where the damaged joint is removed and a metal and plastic ball and socket joint is inserted; the ball is placed at the top of the arm bone and the socket in the shoulder blade.

There is another type of shoulder replacement operation known as a Reverse Shoulder Replacement. In this procedure, the insertion of the false ball and socket joint is reversed; the ball is placed upon the shoulder blade and the socket at the top of the arm bone. This gives a greater chance of success if the rotator cuff muscles have been affected by the condition.