Arthritis is a condition that affects around 10 million people in the UK. There are many different types of arthritis but the most common is osteoarthritis – also called ‘wear and tear’ arthritis because it tends to be linked to ageing. Around 8.75 percent of people in the UK see a doctor for osteoarthritis symptoms.
Other forms of arthritis include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue causing inflammation.
- Gout, which is a form of inflammatory arthritis that typically affects the big toe, although it can also occur in other joints.
- Post-traumatic arthritis which is the result of an injury to your joint, for example a sports injury, fall or vehicle collision.
Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is particularly common in the hips, knees and hands.
Early signs of arthritis
Many forms of arthritis develop slowly over several years. The exception is post-traumatic arthritis which can occur within a few months of the original injury. Symptoms may go away as the body recovers from the trauma, however some people go on to develop chronic post-traumatic arthritis which can have long-term consequences.
The different forms of arthritis share similar symptoms so it is important to get a proper diagnosis so you can understand your particular condition. Common arthritis symptoms include:
- Pain, which can feel like a burning sensation or dull ache. It may be particularly noticeable first thing in the morning or after you’ve been using the joint.
- Swelling in the joint which may affect your mobility.
- Stiffness in the affected joints.
Early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis also include eye inflammation or dryness, shortness of breath, chest pain and fever. Gout symptoms tend to affect the large joint of the big toe which can become red, swollen and very painful. It may also affect other joints such as the knee or ankle.
What causes arthritis?
Arthritis is caused by the cartilage in your joints being unable to function properly due to it becoming roughened or worn, or as the result of inflammation within the joint. Cartilage’s function is to cushion the joint and allow the bones to slide smoothly over each other when you move. As it starts to wear or inflammation develops, swelling, pain and loss of function occurs making it harder to use the affected joint.
Diagnosing arthritis
Because arthritis is a progressive condition – which means it worsens over time – it’s important to get a diagnosis as early as possible as this can help to prevent permanent damage to your joints. A diagnosis can determine which type of arthritis you have and can rule out other conditions that share similar symptoms, such as:
- Fibromyalgia – a condition that can cause pain all over the body, but which mainly affects the muscles rather than the joints.
- Lupus – an autoimmune condition that can cause joint pain and swelling along with other symptoms.
- Tendinopathy – a condition that affects the tendons (which attach muscles to bones) and can cause swelling and pain.
You should seek a diagnosis from your GP, or a specialist orthopaedic consultant, if you are experiencing persistent symptoms, if pain is affecting your everyday life, if your joints are swollen and painful or if you have a fever or the joint is red and warm.
Your consultant will carry out a physical examination and ask about your symptoms and lifestyle habits. They will check your joints for signs of swelling and redness as well as tender area and how well you can move the joint. They may ask you to stand up and walk so they can see whether the pain is affecting your gait. You may be sent for an X-ray, MRI or ultrasound scan to assess the condition of the joint and any signs of inflammation or damage. In some cases, a nerve test will be used to check if there is disruption to normal nerve function. You may also be given other types of tests, such as blood tests of muscle tests, to confirm or rule out rheumatoid or other forms of arthritis.
Treatments for arthritis
Treatments for arthritis will depend on the particular form of the disease and how advanced it is. In the early stages, taking painkillers and doing regular exercise can help you to manage your symptoms and build stronger muscles which can help to support the joint. Exercising helps the joint to become supple and flexible and can reduce stiffness. It can also help you to maintain a healthy weight which can reduce pressure on damaged joints. Low impact exercise is generally best for people with arthritis, such as swimming, yoga or walking. Eating a healthy balanced diet can help you to lose weight if you are overweight and may help to ease certain symptoms.
As arthritis develops, you may need more than simple lifestyle changes to help you manage the symptoms.
Corticosteroids may be offered as a pill or injection directly into the affected joint to relieve pain and inflammation. You may need to see a physiotherapist who will recommend specialised exercises to improve your range of motion. In the most severe cases, your orthopaedic surgeon may recommend surgery to repair or replace the damaged joint. Joint replacement surgery is a routine operation with good long-term outcomes and can help you to regain movement and quality of life.
If you suspect you may have arthritis and would like advice about diagnosis and treatment options, contact us.
A Leading Team of Orthopaedic Specialists – North Yorkshire
We are a team of specialist orthopaedic surgeons each of whom has a particular area of expertise. Not only are we the largest orthopaedic practice in North Yorkshire but we have been established the longest and have many satisfied patients. Take a look at our Testimonials page to see what they say.
Telephone: 01904 373032
Email: info@yorkorthopaedics.co.uk
Our Locations
Clifton Park Hospital – Main Hospital Shipton Rd, Rawcliffe, York YO30 5RA – Directions
Clifton Park Hospital – Outpatients Department, Equinox House, Clifton Park Ave, York YO30 5PA – Directions
Nuffield York Hospital – Haxby Rd, Clifton, York YO31 8TA – Directions
