Arthritis refers to a variety (over 100) of joint problems that cause pain, swelling and stiffness. Arthritis means inflammation of a joint. Little is know about what causes most types; some seem to run in families, others seem to be related to imbalances in body chemistry (ex. gout) or immune system problems (ex. Rheumatoid arthritis). Osteoarthritis is the most common form and affects 20 million Americans. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most debilitating and affects about 2.5 million Americans, occasionally including children (Juvenile Arthritis). Generally, arthritis symptoms begin at about age 40, and affect more women than men. There is no cure, but pain and immobility can be minimized with treatment and a healthy life style.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis can include: pain in a joint during or after use, or with a change in the weather; swelling &/or stiffness in a joint, especially after use; loss of flexibility in a joint; development of bony knobs (nodes) in finger joints; deterioration over several years. Symptoms can occur in young people after injury to a joint, such as sports injuries. Usual joints include weight bearing joints such as hips, knees, spine, and the hands. Symptoms in Rheumatoid arthritis include the above, plus fatigue, low-grade fever, joint deformity; and, affects joints on both sides of the body, with flare-ups occurring intermittently.

Diagnosis is made based on history, blood tests, occasionally joint fluid analysis, various X-Rays, CT scans and/or MRI.

Treatment consists of:
     · A warm shower or bath to relieve morning stiffness. Try to avoid sitting still after shower
     · If the joint is not swollen, apply moist heat for 20-30 minutes 2-3 times/day
     · Put each joint gently through its full range of motion 1-2 times/day. Your doctor may have suggestions/ literature for this.
     · Apply cold packs to inflamed swollen joints for 10-15 minutes once/hour. Cold will help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
     · Regular exercise is important to help maintain strength and flexibility in the muscles and joints. Strengthening exercises prevent the muscle decline that leads to loss of function. Try low impact activities such as swimming, water aerobics, biking or walking.
     · Maintain a healthy weight and eat a healthy diet. Keep a healthy attitude, get sufficient rest.
     · Medications include OTC (over the counter) and prescribed by your doctor, depending on the severity of your arthritis. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Panadol, etc.) relieves pain. Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as Advil, Nuprin, Aleve, (OTC) and stronger prescribed drugs can cause stomach distress in some people, but have the added benefit of treating the inflammation that causes the pain and deterioration. COX-2 drugs such as Celabrex and Vioxx cause less stomach problems but can cause heart problems in some people. As always, partner with your doctor and be sure to inform her/him of "natural remedies" you may be using.

Sources include "Healthwise Handbook", www.nih.com, AOL, and Mayo Health Clinic

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