By: Matt Haase, MS, OTR/L, ATC
Did you know arthritis is the number one cause of disability in the United States? According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), arthritis impacts 60 million individuals (24% of the US population) each year! Arthritis has become widely accepted as a blanketed term for joint pain associated with general “wear and tear” or overuse over years of activity.
Arthritis Awareness Month gives us an opportunity to distinguish between the different types of arthritis and how each can be best managed to minimize symptoms and maximize function for optimal quality of life:
Osteoarthritis (OA):
This is the most common form of arthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease. OA occurs when the cartilage that provides cushioning to your joints breaks down and wears away. Due to the breakdown of cartilage the two bones which form a joint begin to grind on one another, causing pain and discomfort. OA is usually found in joints that are most used, such as the shoulder, hip, knee, and hands.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA):
Rheumatoid arthritis differs greatly from OA. It is an autoimmune disease which causes one’s immune cells to attack and damage the body’s healthy joint tissue which leads to pain and stiffness. RA is typically treated by a rheumatology specialist due to its unique presentation, which often impacts the wrist, hands, & knees. For individuals living with RA, flare ups can be common with overexertion or overuse of the affected joint. As a result, individuals must be aware of factors that may intensify their symptoms, such as heat or overexertion.
Psoriatic Arthritis:
This condition may present following development of the skin condition psoriasis, which results in red patches on the skin with a silvery layer on top. With psoriatic arthritis, individuals often experience joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, similar to other arthritic conditions. Much like RA, psoriatic arthritis is treated by a rheumatologist and individuals may experience periods of flare-ups and remission.
Gout:
This is a form of arthritis that is caused by high levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. Gout occurs when uric acid does not properly break down in the body, resulting in intense pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Flare-ups in individuals living with gout can be sudden and intense, so it’s critical for individuals to manage energy expenditure and avoid triggering activities and foods.
Juvenile Arthritis:
This condition describes a series of autoimmune or autoinflammatory diseases that impact children under age 16. Much like RA, juvenile arthritis results in the body releasing chemicals that attack healthy tissues and joints. Juvenile arthritis can be a lifelong condition, often managed by a rheumatologist, and may also have periods of remission.
While some forms of arthritis require medical intervention by a doctor, others may not, dependent on how it impacts one’s lifestyle and quality of life. Physical and occupational therapists can play a significant role in helping individuals with any form of arthritis improve their function and maintain their participation in meaningful activities. Often, physical therapy can be effective in promoting overall muscle strength, joint mobility, and in restoring the functional use of the impacted joints while minimizing the impact of the arthritis. Occupational therapists can assist in the above-mentioned goals, as well as in the development of joint protection and activity modification strategies to enhance client's participation in meaningful activities while minimizing the impact of pain.
Don’t let arthritis keep you from living your life the way you want to. Come see us at Virginian Rehabilitation & Wellness and our qualified occupational and physical therapists will develop a personalized program to address your symptoms!