Arthritis is an inflammatory process of the joint that, as happens with osteoarthritis, originates as a consequence of the degradation of the cartilage, which prevents the bones that make it come into contact, in addition to cushioning the pressure that the blows exert on it. .
The symptoms of this disease are essentially characterized by pain and inflammation, accompanied by loss of mobility, stiffness of the joint (especially in the early hours of the day) and a sensation of heat around it.
It is common that the inflammation of the joint disappears when treating or healing the pathological process that causes it. However, it may not be like this and become a chronic disease.
Arthritis Treatment
The treatment will depend on the type of arthritis in question and what the cause is. In some cases the treatment of the underlying disease may be enough to make the symptoms disappear, but most of them do not get cured. Be that as it may, the therapeutic objective is to reduce or limit the symptoms (pain and inflammation) and prevent the deterioration of the joint, improving its functionality.
The symptoms are treated with analgesics and anti-inflammatories, although depending on the type of arthritis, other more specific ones are used.
In many cases, physical therapy and physical exercise reduce the stiffness of the joint, reduce pain and strengthen both the bones and the muscles surrounding the joint.
Massage, apply cold and heat or hydrotherapy are some of the therapies that can help improve symptoms.
It may also be necessary to change some lifestyle habits:
- Eliminate excess weight
- Sleep well.
- Follow a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Avoid staying a long time in the same position that keeps the affected joint in tension.
When in spite of the treatment the arthritis continues or worsens, there is the option of surgery, to place a prosthesis, which is very frequent in the case of the knees and the hips.