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Arthritis Joints – How it Happens

April 24, 2009 by admin · 3 Comments

Arthritis Joints - How it happens

If you are dealing with arthritic joints, you may be wondering how this joint problem occurs? Well, this all depends on the type of arthritis that you are dealing with. In some cases arthritis is caused by the use of the joint over a period of time where the cartilage is worn away, such as osteoarthritis.

Other types of arthritis are a result of inflammation of the fluid in the joints, which occurs with Rheumatoid arthritis. Sometimes even an accident that occurs to the joint can result in arthritis in later years. Here is a look at some of the most common types of arthritis joints problems that can occur.

Arthritis of the Hands
One of the most common types of arthritis joints is hand arthritis. The reason that this is so common is because the hands have 27 bones, meaning that there are many joints in each hand. The fingers of the hand are used for many types of activities as well, making them susceptible to arthritis. Both osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis are the main types of arthritis that affect the hands.

Wear and tear is often the cause of the osteoarthritis and it usually affects the knuckles near the finger tips and mid fingers, as well as the thumb joint. Rheumatoid arthritis of the hands, usually affects the knuckles that are at the bottom of the fingers and is due to inflammation to the joints lining. A few symptoms of arthritis in the hands can include swelling, pain, and stiffness.

Arthritis of the Knees
Another common arthritis joint is the knee. Arthritis of the knees is very common, and usually it is osteoarthritis that affects the knees. Usually it is wear and tear over time that leads to this type of arthritis. Over time the cartilage is worn away by use, and the bone can actually become exposed. Usually those over 50 end up with this type of arthritis, although those who are obese can experience it earlier. In some cases an injury to the knee can cause this type of arthritis to occur. Symptoms can include swelling, tenderness, stiffness, pain, deformity, and problems with range of motion.

Arthritis of the Hips
Hip arthritis often occurs and is one of the most common arthritis joints. Once again osteoarthritis is usually the problem here as the joint is used over time. This too usually occurs in older people or those over their ideal weights. This can also run in families as well. Trauma to the hips can cause this arthritis to occur too. Usually this condition gets worse over time and the symptoms can include pain in the area, hip stiffness, and limping.

These are just a few of the different arthritis joints and how they can occur. If you feel that you are dealing with arthritis in any of your joints, it is definitely a great idea to see your physician. There are many tests that can be run to see if arthritis is your problem and what type of arthritis may be affecting you.

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