5 Common Types of Arthritis

If you're one of the over 58 million Americans living with arthritis, you understand how debilitating this condition can be. What many individuals may not be aware of, however, is the varying types of arthritis and the effects they have on different areas of the body.

No matter your diagnosis, our services are here to provide you with the right treatment to help manage and reduce your pain.

Below are five common types of arthritis and their associated symptoms.

1) Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent type of arthritis, affecting more than 30 million people in the United States alone. It is caused by the deterioration of joint tissue, which results in pain, stiffness, swelling, and a limited range of motion. OA is most common in individuals over the age of 50 and can be particularly painful in those with a history of joint trauma or obesity.

Individuals with OA often experience pain in their hips, knees, fingers, or feet.

2) Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissue, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness. It most commonly affects the hands, wrists, feet, elbows, and ankles — usually affecting multiple areas at once.

Individuals with RA are more likely to experience fatigue, low-grade fevers, and other systemic symptoms in addition to joint pain and inflammation. Unlike OA, which is caused by wear-and-tear of joints over time, RA is caused by the body’s own immune system.

3) Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects those who have psoriasis, a chronic skin condition in which red patches appear on the skin, often accompanied by silver-colored scales. It may affect any area of the body but commonly settles in the hands, feet, and spine — causing pain and swelling in joints.

4) Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This excess of uric acid can be caused by a diet high in protein or fructose. Gout usually affects only one joint at a time — most often the big toe, ankle, or knee. Symptoms of gout include sudden and intensely painful swelling in the affected joint, redness, and warmth in the area.

5) Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a form of chronic pain that affects the muscles, ligaments, and tendons throughout the body. It is characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, insomnia, depression, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.

Fibromyalgia can be difficult to diagnose as it is often accompanied by other chronic illnesses such as:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Migraines
• Interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome
• Temporomandibular joint disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression

No matter the type of arthritis, living with this condition can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Our services are here to help you find the correct treatment, provide you with a proper diagnosis, manage your symptoms, and reduce pain. Contact Fox Valley Orthopedics today to schedule your next appointment!