Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints of the body. Often times, many of the joints are affected, but in some cases, only a select few are inflamed. There are two common types of the condition; osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs through regular wear and tear of the body, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. See our arthritis pain exercises for more information.
Causes
Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes
Rheumatoid arthritis causes are known to medical professionals, but the reasons why are unknown. Basically, rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking the synovium, which is the membrane lining the joints in the body. This causes inflammation and a thickened synovium, which damages the bones and cartilage in that joint. Because of this process, the ligaments and tendons in the joint become weak and begin to stretch. Eventually, the shape and alignment of the joint is lost.
Unfortunately, medical professionals do not understand what starts these arthritis causes. Rheumatoid arthritis has been linked to genetics, but the genes don’t actually cause the condition. Genes simply make a person more susceptible to infection or bacteria, which could be the main rheumatoid arthritis causes in an individual.
Symptoms
Arthritis Symptoms
Arthritis symptoms may be severe or mild. Knowing what to look for will help you to know which rheumatoid arthritis treatment options to seek out. The following are some common arthritis symptoms:
- Swollen joints that are tender and/or warm
- Morning stiffness that could possibly last well into the day
- Rheumatoid nodules, which are firm bumps of tissue that appear on the arms, underneath the skin
- Fatigue and fever
- Weight loss
Something to keep in mind about rheumatoid arthritis symptoms is that they typically occur in the smaller joints of the body first, then as the condition gets worse, the symptoms will manifest in the larger joints of the body. In most patients, the symptoms will occur in both of the same joints, on either side of the body.
Treatments
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
There is no rheumatoid arthritis treatment that will completely cure the condition. There are, however, rheumatoid arthritis treatment options that will relieve the pain and reduce inflammation, which ultimately prevents or slows the process of joint damage.
Immediate Relief
- Medication – Your medical professional may prescribe you some medication to take, such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, or immunosuppressants.
Stretch
- StretchRite® - The patended tool that makes stretching more effective, comfortable and fun! It is so effective that it is used by everyone from collegiate and professional athletes to arthritis sufferers and weekend gardeners.
- CoreStretch® – It offers the most effective stretch of the lower back. Available for use in a physical therapist’s office, or for use at home, this delivers immediate relief for lower back pain.
Massage
- Type A+ Massage Roller - The perfect trigger point muscle massage tool to help relieve signs of IT band syndrome, plantar fasciitis, hamstring strains, shin splints, lower back tightness, and glute pain. It’s great to treat your tired and sore muscles.
- Marble Massage Roller– The Marble massage roller is a hand-held roller massage tool designed to help relieve tight muscle knots, tension, and muscle soreness. It features three magnetic balls that stimulate optimal blood flow throughout your muscles.
- Nonagon Foam Roller - The textured 9-sided foam roller design with a solid EVA foam core connects with the fascia with precision and allows for a deeper, stable, and secure roll without lifting your entire body weight.
In most cases of arthritis, the best treatment is finding a good therapist who can teach you to do things differently so you aren’t putting too much pressure on your joints. In some situations, the condition may even require surgery in order to help relieve as much pain as possible.
