Arthritis (joint swelling) can be of many types. The most common type is osteoarthritis which is seen in most cases. While some cases fall into the category of inflammatory arthritis, eg, rheumatoid arthritis, gout etc. Osteoarthritis is primarily due to wear and tear of the cartilage. Inflammatory arthritis is due to the production of certain substances in the joint that directly damage the cartilage. The basic problem with all forms of arthritis is the resultant cartilage destruction. A cartilage is the cushion of the joint and in its absence the joint becomes rough, painful and deformed. Irrespective of the cause or type of arthritis, the final result in all these is end-stage arthritis in which the cartilage is completely lost and surgeries are the only remedy.
Studies have shown that osteoarthritis is now starting at an earlier age and younger people are presenting with end-stage disease. Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age. [Read more...]
