Arthritis is a complex condition affecting joints, characterised by inflammation, stiffness, and pain. It poses unique challenges in orthopaedic care and impacts the musculoskeletal system, often resulting in reduced mobility and quality of life.

Understanding the prevalence and diagnostic criteria is essential. In India, a significant portion of the population suffers from arthritis, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. Proper diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and sometimes, laboratory tests to determine the type and extent of arthritis.

If you suspect arthritis or have been experiencing joint discomfort, we encourage you to seek medical advice promptly. Early intervention and proactive management are key to effectively managing arthritis and minimising its impact on your daily activities.

Whether you’re experiencing joint pain for the first time or seeking advanced care for a chronic condition, our team is dedicated to helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Arthritis has various causes that can be broadly classified into several categories, including genetic, autoimmune, metabolic, and environmental factors. Understanding these underlying causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.

1. Genetic Factors: Genetics play a significant role in the development of certain types of arthritis. For instance, individuals with a family history of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA) are at a higher risk of developing these conditions. Similarly, variations in genes responsible for collagen production and joint structure can predispose individuals to osteoarthritis. These genetic predispositions can influence the body’s immune response and joint integrity, leading to the onset of arthritis.

2. Autoimmune Factors: Autoimmune responses are a primary cause of several types of arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, including the joints. This autoimmune response leads to chronic inflammation, joint damage, and pain. The exact triggers for these autoimmune reactions are not fully understood but are believed to involve a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors, such as infections or hormonal changes. Autoimmune arthritis often requires long-term management with medications that suppress the immune system.

3. Metabolic Factors: Metabolic disorders can also lead to arthritis. Gout, for example, is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe inflammation. Uric acid buildup occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or when the kidneys fail to excrete it efficiently. Another example is pseudogout, which is caused by the deposition of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joints. These metabolic conditions can cause recurrent episodes of acute arthritis and may require dietary management and medications to control uric acid levels.

4. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors: Environmental and lifestyle factors significantly contribute to the development and progression of arthritis. Joint injuries from sports, accidents, or repetitive stress can damage cartilage and lead to osteoarthritis. Obesity is another major risk factor, as excess body weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, accelerating cartilage breakdown. Additionally, occupational hazards, such as prolonged kneeling or heavy lifting, can increase the risk of developing arthritis. Certain infections, such as Lyme disease, can also trigger arthritis by causing inflammation in the joints.

5. Other Factors: Age and gender are also influential in the onset of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults due to the wear and tear of joints over time. Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, potentially due to hormonal differences and the impact of pregnancy on joint health. Furthermore, poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle can weaken bones and muscles, exacerbating the risk of arthritis.

Arthritis encompasses a spectrum of conditions that affect the joints, each with its own set of symptoms. The most common types include osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but there are many other forms, such as psoriatic arthritis, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis. Despite their differences, these conditions share several hallmark symptoms.

1. Joint Pain: Persistent discomfort in one or more joints, often worsening with movement or at the end of the day.

2. Stiffness: Difficulty moving a joint, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

3. Swelling: Visible swelling or puffiness around affected joints.

4. Redness and Warmth: Joints may feel warm to the touch and appear red or inflamed.

5. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending, straightening, or fully using a joint’s range of motion.

6. Joint Deformities: Joints may become misshapen or appear enlarged due to cartilage loss and bone changes.

7. Fatigue: Often associated with chronic pain and inflammation, leading to overall tiredness.

8. Weakness: Muscles around affected joints may weaken due to decreased use and pain.

9. Joint Instability: Feeling of joints giving way or being unstable, especially in weight-bearing joints like knees or hips.

10. Numbness and Tingling: Sometimes, nerve compression or inflammation around joints can cause sensations of numbness or tingling.

These symptoms can vary depending on the type of arthritis (such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or psoriatic arthritis) and the specific joints affected.