Introduction: What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions that affect the joints, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. Simply put, it means inflammation of one or more joints.
While arthritis is often thought of as a disease of older adults, it can affect people of all ages, including children. Globally, millions live with arthritis, and in India, rising cases of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis make it a major health concern.
Living with arthritis can make simple tasks—like walking, climbing stairs, or even holding a cup—very painful. Understanding the types, symptoms, causes, and treatments can help you take the right steps toward relief.
Types of Arthritis
Arthritis is not a single disease—it includes more than 100 conditions. The most common types include:
1. Osteoarthritis (OA)
→ Known as “wear-and-tear” arthritis. Happens when the protective cartilage cushioning the bones wears down. Most common in knees, hips, spine, and hands.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
→ An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks joint lining. Causes swelling, deformity, and pain. Can also affect other organs like eyes, lungs, and skin.
3. Gout
→ Caused by uric acid crystal buildup in joints. Leads to sudden, intense pain (often in the big toe).
4. Psoriatic Arthritis
→ Develops in people with psoriasis (skin condition). Causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
5. Juvenile Arthritis
→ Arthritis affecting children under 16, leading to swollen, stiff, painful joints.
Causes & Symptoms of Arthritis
Causes of Arthritis
The exact cause differs by type, but common causes include:
→ Wear and tear of cartilage (osteoarthritis)
→ Immune system attack on joints (rheumatoid arthritis)
→ Uric acid buildup (gout)
→ Genetics – family history of arthritis
→ Infections that trigger joint inflammation
→ Injury or trauma to joints
Symptoms of Arthritis
→ Joint pain (constant or while moving)
→ Swelling and tenderness in joints
→ Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
→ Reduced range of motion
→ Warmth or redness around joints
→ Fatigue, fever, or weight loss (especially in rheumatoid arthritis)
→ Deformity in joints if untreated
What are the Risk Factors for Arthritis?
Certain factors increase your chance of developing arthritis:
1. Age
→ Risk increases as you get older, especially for osteoarthritis.
2. Family History
→ If your parents or siblings have arthritis, your chances are higher.
3. Gender
→ Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more prone to gout.
4. Obesity
→ Extra weight puts stress on weight-bearing joints like hips and knees.
5. Previous Joint Injuries
→ If you’ve injured a joint, you’re more likely to develop arthritis in that area.
6. Autoimmune Disorders
→ People with autoimmune conditions are more prone to inflammatory arthritis.
Management & Treatment for Arthritis
There is no permanent cure for arthritis, but with the right treatment, you can manage pain, protect your joints, and improve your quality of life.
1. Lifestyle & Self-Care
→ Exercise regularly: Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and yoga.
→ Maintain a healthy weight: Reduces strain on joints.
→ Heat & cold therapy: Helps reduce stiffness and pain.
→ Assistive devices: Walking aids, braces, or special footwear.
2. Medications
→ Pain relievers: Paracetamol, NSAIDs.
→ Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation.
→ DMARDs: For rheumatoid arthritis.
→ Biologics: Advanced medicines for severe autoimmune arthritis.
3. Therapy & Non-Surgical Options
→ Physiotherapy: Improves flexibility, strengthens muscles.
→ Occupational therapy: Helps with daily activities.
→ Injections: Cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections.
4. Surgical Treatments
→ Joint replacement (knee, hip, shoulder).
→ Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to clean the joint.
→ Joint fusion: Bones fused to relieve pain in smaller joints.
Why Universal Hospital for Arthritis Diagnosis & Treatment?
At Universal Hospital, Surat, we understand that arthritis is not just about pain—it affects your mobility, confidence, and lifestyle. That’s why our focus is on holistic, patient-centered care.
1. Expert Orthopedic & Rheumatology Specialists
→ Our doctors specialize in arthritis diagnosis, management, and advanced joint replacement surgeries.
2. Advanced Diagnostic Facilities
→ Modern tools like X-rays, MRI, blood tests, and ultrasound.
3. Comprehensive Treatment Plans
→ From medications and physiotherapy to surgeries and joint replacements.
4. Personalized Care
→ Tailored treatment plans for each patient.
5. Rehabilitation & Support
→ Post-treatment physiotherapy and lifestyle counseling.
Arthritis can be painful, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Early diagnosis and proper management can help you reduce pain, maintain mobility, and enjoy an active lifestyle.
If you or your loved one experience joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, don’t ignore the signs. Timely consultation with an expert can make all the difference.
At Universal Hospital Surat, we are committed to providing the best arthritis management treatments in Gujarat—with advanced technology, compassionate doctors, and holistic rehabilitation.
Call-to-Action
Take charge of your joint health today.
Call Universal Hospital Surat to book your consultation with our arthritis specialists.
→ Universal Superspeciality Hospital beside Jash Infinity, Behind New SMC Building, Civil Cross Road, Khatodara, Surat, India, 395001
→ +91 90810 82632
🌐 www.universalhospitalsurat.com
