FAQ about Arthritis

• What is arthritis?

The term arthritis means joint inflammation  (“arthr-” it means joint; “-itis” it means inflammation). This problem usually affects the area around the joints such as tendons and muscles. It might also affect the other body parts such as the skin and other internal organs. Most of the type of arthritis are mostly chronic and they last for a lifetime.

• Can it cause numbness?

One of the symptoms is numbness. The numbness is in the arm then it is referred to issue of nerve irritation in the neck. To avoid this problem, you should not turn or bend as it might increase the issue. If the nerve irritation gets severe than the arm and hand become very weak.

• Will Cracking Knuckles cause this problem?

There is no evidence that cracking knuckles can cause this problem. But repeated injury of the joint can increase problem which results in swelling and it can injure the cartilage and this will lead to joint disease.

• What are the symptoms?

As they are of different types so they have different symptoms. Pain and stiffness which can be in and around one or more joints are common symptoms. Depending on its type, symptoms can gradually over time or develop suddenly. Sometime the symptoms may come and go, or stay for a long time.

• What are the causes?

This problem has more than 100 types and most of them are not known. As there are different type so the causes are also different. Some of the reasons which are found include a genetic factor, lifestyle changes, and may be due to some previous injury.

• How to prevent this issue?

    The risk of getting some types of problem can be reduced by changing risk factors which you can control. Risk factors you can prevent being overweight, obesity, joint injuries, and smoking.

• How it is diagnosed?

The doctor will provide a diagnosis based on your medical history, physical examination and diagnostic tests which include blood tests and x-rays. Early diagnosis is necessary to successful treatment outcomes, so if you feel you are suffering the symptoms, it is very important to speak to the doctor as soon as possible to obtain a diagnosis and get arthritis treatment.

• Can I do exercise with this issue?

Light physical activity helps to reduce the pain as well as stiffness. Physical activity will give you more energy and you will generally feel better. Consider activities that will leave a very low impact on joints such as walking, swimming, riding a bike, gardening and dancing.