Arthritis: what is it?
When people say they have ‘arthritis’ they usually mean the most common type of arthritis, called osteoarthritis. Alternatively, some people may have rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition of the joints.
Osteoarthritis is sometimes considered ‘mechanical wear and tear’ on the joints. This destroys cartilage, often without causing inflammation. Other factors also affect cartilage metabolism, but this simple explanation does describe the end result. Weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips are usually affected, as well as other joints, such as the fingers. Many people are not seriously affected, but osteoarthritis can lead to serious disability and pain.
Symptoms of arthritis
People usually complain of pain in the affected joint. The pain is generally described as a deep ache that is hard to localise. The affected joints are not usually hot or inflamed, unless the osteoarthritis is very advanced.
Exercise makes the pain worse, rest relieves it, but prolonged inactivity may result in stiffness. Morning stiffness is common, but usually lasts less than 30 minutes. As osteoarthritis becomes more severe, it may be extremely painful for the person to climb stairs and get in and out of cars, especially when the knee is affected. Osteoarthritis may come and go, with periods when there is very little or no pain. Some people identify particular times when the pain is worse, for example, in damp weather.
When should you seek medical advice?
You should seek medical advice if:- you have back pain;
- the pain is severe and occurs suddenly, or if it interferes with movement;
- the pain becomes worse or continues after 2-3 days;
- the joint is red, inflamed or swollen, as it may indicate another medical condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout;
- you feel unwell generally, other than the joint pain, as infection may be a problem, for example, in septic arthritis;
- there is a burning pain, especially if the pain is felt down the side of the leg, as this may indicate nerve involvement; or
- the pain could be the result of trauma, such as a fall, as this may have caused damage that requires further diagnosis.
What can you do to help?
The aim of arthritis therapy is to control the pain, maintain a healthy, optimal weight, keep active and limit further injury.
Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are important for pain management and keeping limbs functioning. Muscle strengthening exercises will also help. A walking stick for knee and hip osteoarthritis will help to reduce stress on the joint, as will maintaining your optimal weight.
Heat may be useful before exercise, and ice packs may be useful after exercise. However, this is an individual preference and should be trialled for a week or 2 to determine if either of these treatments provide any pain relief.
Supportive footwear can be helpful in protecting the joints. A visit to an orthotics expert may be useful to counteract some arthritic deformities. Special aids to help with everyday life, for example, opening jars, turning on taps, putting on stockings, picking up objects, are also available from some pharmacies as well as from your local Arthritis Foundation.
Last Reviewed: 17 February 2003
