Two Common Triggers Behind Joint Pain

The spectrum of diseases related to rheumatism encompasses a wide range of inflammatory and degenerative conditions. These disorders can cause significant joint pain, with various underlying causes such as inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis or joint cartilage degeneration, commonly referred to as osteoarthritis. Rheumatic diseases affect many people’s lives, and to understand them better, it is essential to become familiar with the structure and function of the joints.

The Structure and Function of Joints

Understanding the function of joints is crucial, and this requires knowledge of their structure. The ends of the bones in the joints are covered by cartilage, a flexible material made of collagen and water. The role of cartilage is to protect the joints and reduce friction during movement. Surrounding the joints is a joint capsule lined with synovial membrane. This membrane produces synovial fluid, which nourishes the cartilage and helps reduce friction during joint movement.

Ligaments also play an important role in joint stability, as they prevent the bones from displacing from their positions. The movement of the joints is influenced by the surrounding muscles, which aid in executing various forms of movement through their contractions. Therefore, the health of the joints extends beyond just cartilage and ligaments to include muscles, making a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise key factors in preventing joint problems.

Symptoms and Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation in the joints. This inflammation most commonly affects the joints of the fingers and toes and typically presents symmetrically, meaning it occurs on both sides of the body at the same time. As a result of the inflammation, pain, redness, swelling, and joint stiffness may develop. Symptoms are usually most intense in the morning and gradually decrease throughout the day.

As the disease progresses, the inflamed joints visibly swell, and surrounding tissues may be damaged, leading to deformities. Patients often report fatigue and weight loss, and in severe cases, fever may also occur. Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis requires a thorough medical examination, including physical assessments, laboratory tests, and imaging procedures.

The treatment of rheumatoid arthritis requires a multidisciplinary approach, which includes medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. The goal is to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and maintain function so that patients can live as full a life as possible.

Osteoarthritis and Its Symptoms

Osteoarthritis, or joint cartilage degeneration, is a degenerative disease that leads to the gradual wear and tear of cartilage. Pain is the first sign of this disease, most commonly occurring in larger weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spinal joints. Initially, pain is felt only during more intense movements, such as during sports or prolonged standing.

A characteristic feature of osteoarthritis is morning stiffness, which usually subsides after about half an hour. As the disease progresses, pain may gradually become constant, and movement restrictions may occur. Patients often experience swelling in the joints, and the affected areas become more sensitive.

The treatment of osteoarthritis typically employs conservative methods, such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and physical therapy. Maintaining physical activity and an appropriate body weight is also important, as these can help alleviate symptoms and improve joint function. In advanced stages of the disease, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore joint functionality and reduce pain.