Arthritis

The word ‘arthritis’ is used in a broad sense to cover the many conditions in which something goes wrong with one or more of the body’s joints.

There are about 150 different types of arthritis. Although these conditions may have different causes and may require different treatments, they often have similar signs and symptoms.

Some forms of arthritis

Osteoarthritis - the most common form, is one in which changes are seen in the cartilage, which is the ‘gristle-like’ covering of the joint surface.

Spondylosis - is the name given to osteoarthritis of the spinal joints. Changes are found most commonly in the neck region and the lower back region.

Rheumatoid arthritis - found more often in women, is due to an over-activity of the immune system. This leads to inflammation, especially of the ‘synovial’ lining of joints.

Gout - in which uric acid crystals cause joint inflammation.

The severity of each of the many different forms of arthritis varies greatly from person to person. For example, rheumatoid arthritis may affect some people only slightly, while others may be more severely affected because the disease is more active. Many forms of arthritis appear to go in ‘cycles’, with periods of greater activity of the disease and periods of considerable improvement, known as remissions.

Signs

• pain, swelling or stiffness in one or more joints
• pain or stiffness in the back or neck
• joint or back pain during activity
• persistent pain or stiffness after activity or on getting out of bed in the morning 
• unexplained pains and aches, especially if combined with fever, lack of energy or loss of weight.

Can arthritis be cured?

Although there is no known cure for arthritis there is a great deal that can be done to control the disease:

• In most cases osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis need early treatment and management.
• Arthritis due to gout can be brought under complete control, provided proper medications are prescribed and the instructions followed for their use.
• Arthritis due to some viruses cures itself naturally after some weeks or months.
• Arthritis due to bacterial infection can be completely cured with antibiotic treatment if properly diagnosed.
  

Arthritis and age

People often think that arthritis will get worse as they get older but this is not necessarily so. In fact, there are many types of arthritis in which there is a severe stage in early or middle life; followed by a period later in life free from symptoms, or with far less trouble than during the earlier stage, especially if proper treatment has been applied.

Treatment and management of arthritis

Today there is a great variety of treatments and forms of management for people with arthritis to choose from - that choice will depend on the individual’s particular needs and requirements.

Working closely with your doctor and health-care team will make sure you make the most appropriate choice.

Self-management courses are conducted by the Arthritis Foundation and are designed to give people the knowledge and skills to take a more active part in the care of their arthritis. For more information phone the Foundation’s Helpline on 8379 5711, country free call 1800 011 041

Gentle exercise, on land or in a heated pool, together with a sensible fitness program has been shown to be of great benefit to people with arthritis, proving the truth of the statement ‘Move It or Lose It’. Many suitable arthritis exercise classes are conducted in the community.

Beware of unproven remedies and medicines promising quick relief from chronic arthritis. They do not cure the disease and may even be harmful. As for sensational reports about wonder cures, be guided by your doctor.

Some people feel more comfortable when the weather is warm. However, it is always best to try any recommended climate on a temporary basis first.

Medications

In some cases specific treatment may be needed to control an infection, to correct uric acid balance in the body, or to control problems in the body’s immune system.

In other cases, medication to reduce inflammation and pain in joints is needed; others may require only pain-relieving tablets.

Physiotherapy

It is used in order to:

• relieve symptoms of pain and stiffness
• improve the working of joints and strengthen the muscles which control them
• minimise the development of deformities of joints.

Surgery

 A number of surgical procedures such as joint replacements have a most important place in the treatment of the more severe types of arthritis.

Specialists

Your doctor may recommend that you be referred to a specialist:

• Rheumatologists are medical specialists with particular training and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.
• Orthopaedic surgeons are specially qualified in the surgery of bones and joints and some even specialise in the treatment of particular joints.
• Plastic surgeons are also concerned in the surgical treatment of some arthritic conditions, especially in the hands.
  

Remember that early diagnosis and treatment help control arthritis.

Public hospitals with outpatient clinics that treat arthritis:

• Flinders Medical Centre, Rheumatology Clinic, tel. 8204 5193
• Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Rheumatology Clinic, tel. 8222 7020
• Repatriation General Hospital, Rheumatology Unit, tel. 8275 1837
• Royal Adelaide Hospital, Rheumatology Clinic, tel. 8222 5910

Treatment at hospital clinics is free for pensioners or those with similar entitlements. A doctor’s referral is required.

Useful contacts

For further information about arthritis, contact: 

For further information about arthritis, contact:
The Arthritis Foundation of SA
Unit 1, 202-208 Glen Osmond Road, Fullarton 5063.
Helpline 8379 5711, country free call 1800 011 041