Diagnosing arthritis involves a thorough evaluation by a medical professional, typically a rheumatologist or orthopaedic specialist. The diagnostic process may include the following steps:

1. Medical History: The doctor will begin by discussing your symptoms, their onset, duration, and any factors that worsen or alleviate them. They will also inquire about your medical history, including any previous injuries, surgeries, or family history of arthritis.

2. Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical exam is conducted to assess joint function, range of motion, swelling, tenderness, and signs of inflammation. This helps the doctor identify affected joints and their specific characteristics.

3. Imaging Studies: X-rays are commonly used to visualise joint damage, such as cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint alignment abnormalities. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and ultrasound may also be employed to assess soft tissues, ligaments, and inflammation in more detail.

4. Laboratory Tests: Blood tests may be ordered to detect specific markers of inflammation and autoimmune activity. These can include C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, and antibodies associated with other types of arthritis.

5. Joint Aspiration (Arthrocentesis): In cases of suspected infection or to analyse joint fluid composition, a small sample of fluid may be withdrawn from the affected joint for examination under a microscope. This procedure helps rule out conditions like gout or infection.

6. Clinical Criteria: For certain types of arthritis, specific clinical criteria may be used for diagnosis. For example, the American College of Rheumatology criteria are used for diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis based on the number and severity of symptoms observed.

7. Specialised Tests: Depending on the suspected type of arthritis, additional specialised tests or consultations may be necessary. This could include bone scans, CT scans, or referral to other specialists such as dermatologists (for psoriatic arthritis) or ophthalmologists (for arthritis associated with eye inflammation).

Diagnosing arthritis is a comprehensive process that involves integrating information from medical history, physical examination, imaging, laboratory tests, and sometimes joint fluid analysis. This multidimensional approach helps ensure an accurate diagnosis and allows for the development of a personalised treatment plan aimed at managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Treating arthritis involves a multifaceted approach tailored to each patient’s specific type of arthritis, severity of symptoms, overall health, and lifestyle factors. Medical professionals, typically rheumatologists, orthopaedic specialists, or primary care physicians, collaborate to develop a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at reducing pain, improving joint function, and slowing disease progression.

1. Medications: Depending on the type and severity of arthritis, various medications may be prescribed:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These medications, such as methotrexate or sulfasalazine, are often used for inflammatory types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis to slow disease progression and preserve joint function.
  
• Biologic agents: For moderate to severe arthritis, biologics such as TNF inhibitors (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept) or interleukin inhibitors (e.g., tocilizumab) target specific immune responses involved in inflammation.
  
• Corticosteroids: Injections of corticosteroids directly into the affected joints can provide short-term relief from pain and inflammation.
  

2. Physical Therapy: A tailored exercise program designed by a physical therapist can improve joint flexibility, strengthen muscles around the joints, and enhance overall mobility. This approach is crucial in maintaining joint function and reducing stiffness.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Recommendations may include weight management to reduce stress on weight-bearing joints, ergonomic adjustments at work or home to minimise joint strain, and assistive devices such as splints or braces to support joints.

4. Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief or joint damage is severe, surgical interventions may be considered. Options range from arthroscopic procedures to repair or remove damaged tissue, joint replacement surgery (e.g., knee or hip replacement), or joint fusion in specific cases.

5. Complementary Therapies: Some patients find relief through complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, or dietary supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate. While these methods may not replace traditional treatments, they can complement medical management.

6. Patient Education and Support: Arthritis management often includes educating patients about their condition, self-care strategies, and the importance of adherence to treatment plans. Support groups and counselling may also be beneficial in managing the emotional and psychological aspects of living with chronic arthritis.

The goal of arthritis treatment is to control symptoms, prevent joint damage, and improve quality of life. Treatment plans are personalised based on the specific needs and goals of each patient, with regular monitoring and adjustments as necessary to optimise outcomes and ensure long-term joint health.