Arthritis is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It can occur at any age - for some people, Arthritis is simply a discomfort but for others it can cause significant limitations in movement and quality of life.

Arthritis is not just a disease of the elderly as is often believed. It can also affect young people, even children, as a result of autoimmune diseases, genetic predisposition or other factors.

 

Its symptoms can appear gradually and often go unnoticed at first. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and more difficult treatment.

 

1. What is Arthritis?

 

Arthritis is not a single disease but a term that encompasses a group of over 100 different conditions affecting the joints and surrounding tissues. This makes it one of the most complex and diverse medical conditions, requiring a personalized approach for diagnosis and treatment.

Arthritis can affect any joint in the human body - from the small joints of the fingers to large joints such as those of the knees and hips.

 

Arthritis can affect other parts of the body besides the joints. Some forms of Arthritis, such as rheumatoid Arthritis or psoriatic Arthritis, can affect organs such as the skin, eyes, heart or lungs.

 

Arthritis is not always the result of aging or mechanical wear and tear on the joints. It can be caused by a variety of factors - inflammation, mechanical wear and tear, infections or autoimmune reactions.

 

2. Types of Arthritis

 

The term Arthritis encompasses many different conditions, each with its own unique mechanisms of development, symptoms and impact on the body.

 

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, also known as "wear-and-tear Arthritis," is the most common type. The cartilage that covers the ends of bones in joints wears down over time - this leads to friction between the bones causing pain, stiffness and swelling.

It often affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips and spine. In advanced cases bone spurs (osteophytes) can develop, further limiting movement.

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the tissues in the joints. It not only causes inflammation and pain but can also lead to joint deformity.

Unlike osteoarthritis, this type of Arthritis often begins at a younger age and can affect multiple joints symmetrically. Other organs such as the lungs, eyes and heart are often also affected.

 

Gout

Gout is a type of Arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body. Uric acid crystals are deposited in the joints, most often at the base of the big toe, causing sudden and extremely painful attacks.

It is often associated with a diet rich in red meat, seafood and alcohol as well as metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes.

 

Gout

 

Psoriatic Arthritis

This type of Arthritis is related to the skin disease psoriasis. In addition to the joints it also affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches.

Psoriatic Arthritis can affect both small joints (such as those in the fingers) and large joints (such as the knees). Swelling of the fingers (so-called "sausage fingers") is a characteristic visual symptom of the condition.

 

Reactive Arthritis

Reactive Arthritis is a condition that occurs after an infection, most often of the genitourinary or gastrointestinal system. Symptoms include joint pain, tendon inflammation and sometimes red eyes (conjunctivitis). The affected joints are often asymmetrical and the condition can be temporary or chronic.

 

Ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory Arthritis that affects the spine. It causes pain and stiffness in the lower back and pelvis and in more severe cases it can lead to fusion of the vertebrae, which significantly reduces mobility.

 

Juvenile Arthritis

This is a type of Arthritis that affects children under the age of 16. The main symptoms are inflammation, swelling, pain and may be accompanied by additional symptoms such as fever and rashes.

Juvenile Arthritis can have different forms - systemic, oligoarticular (affecting a small number of joints) and polyarticular (affecting multiple joints).

 

Each type of Arthritis has its own specific features but all of them require timely diagnosis and proper treatment. Sometimes patients can have a combination of different types of Arthritis which makes the disease even more complicated to manage.

 

3. What are the main symptoms of Arthritis?

 

In addition to the main signs such as pain, swelling and stiffness, Arthritis is often accompanied by more complex and specific symptoms that can complicate diagnosis.

 

1. Joint pain

 

Pain is the most common symptom of Arthritis. It can be:

  • Acute or chronic - at first the pain is often episodic but over time it can become constant;
  • Localized or widespread - some people experience pain in one joint, while in others it can affect multiple joints at the same time;
  • Worsening with movement - in osteoarthritis the pain usually increases with physical activity, while in inflammatory forms such as rheumatoid Arthritis the pain is often worse when resting.

 

2. Swelling and redness

 

Swelling is the result of inflammation in the joint. It may be accompanied by redness and a feeling of warmth around the affected area. These symptoms are especially pronounced in inflammatory types of Arthritis such as gout and rheumatoid Arthritis.

  • Periodic or constant - in gout, swelling may occur in attacks, while in chronic forms of Arthritis it is constant;
  • Intensity - some types of Arthritis, such as septic Arthritis, cause extremely severe swelling that limits movement.

 

3. Joint stiffness

 

Joint stiffness is another common symptom. It is especially noticeable in the morning or after a long period of rest.

  • Morning stiffness - characteristic of rheumatoid Arthritis, morning stiffness can last from a few minutes to several hours;
  • After rest - stiffness after sitting or lying down is common in osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

 

Joint stiffness

 

4. Reduced joint mobility

 

As Arthritis progresses, joint mobility decreases. Affected people may experience difficulty performing daily activities, such as:

  • Opening jars;
  • Climbing stairs;
  • Walking or getting up from a chair.

 

This decrease in range of motion is often the result of a combination of pain, inflammation and structural damage.

 

5. Joint deformity

 

In more severe and advanced cases, Arthritis can lead to visible deformities of the joints. This is especially true for rheumatoid Arthritis and psoriatic Arthritis.

  • Finger deformity - the joints of the hands can become distorted which significantly hinders fine movements;
  • Lumps and nodules - some forms of Arthritis such as rheumatoid Arthritis can cause rheumatoid nodules to form around the joints.

 

6. Systemic symptoms

 

In some cases, Arthritis affects not only the joints but the entire body. This can include:

  • Fatigue - persistent pain and inflammation can lead to a feeling of exhaustion;
  • Fever - a common symptom in inflammatory types of Arthritis, especially Reactive Arthritis and Septic Arthritis;
  • Loss of appetite and weight - systemic inflammation can affect the metabolism and appetite.

 

4. How does Arthritis occur? Main causes and risk factors

 

Arthritis can be caused by multiple factors that interact in a complex way. They can be genetic, environmental, mechanical or lifestyle-related.

 

Genetic predisposition

Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of some types of Arthritis such as rheumatoid Arthritis, gout and ankylosing spondylitis.

 

Advanced age

As you age the likelihood of developing Arthritis increases.

 

Joint injuries or trauma

Joint injuries can cause Arthritis to develop even years after they occur.

 

Autoimmune diseases

In autoimmune forms of Arthritis, such as rheumatoid Arthritis and lupus, the immune system attacks its own tissues including the joints, leading to inflammation, pain and damage.

 

Infections

Bacteria, viruses or fungi can cause inflammation in the joints by directly attacking the joint tissue. Forms of Arthritis caused by infections, such as septic Arthritis and reactive Arthritis, are relatively rare.

 

Lifestyle

Many aspects of lifestyle contribute to the development of Arthritis - a sedentary lifestyle, an improper diet (vitamin D and calcium deficiency, excessive consumption of sugar, salt or saturated fats), smoking.

 

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes play a significant role in the development of some types of Arthritis as they can affect inflammatory processes in the body and the functioning of the immune system.

For example, women are more likely to develop rheumatoid Arthritis, especially during periods of hormonal imbalance such as pregnancy, the postpartum period and menopause.

 

Hormonal changes

 

Obesity

Excess weight is one of the main risk factors for osteoarthritis because it increases the load on the joints.

 

Metabolic disorders

Metabolic disorders can contribute to the development of certain types of Arthritis. The most common condition is gout, in which high levels of uric acid in the blood lead to the formation of crystals in the joints.

 

5. How is Arthritis diagnosed?

 

Diagnosing Arthritis requires a combination of a review of the patient's medical history, a physical examination and specialized tests.

 

1. Medical examination

The doctor will gather information about the patient's symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. This includes:

  • Description of symptoms - duration, intensity and time of onset of pain and stiffness;
  • Medical history - collection of data on previous illnesses, injuries and family history of Arthritis or autoimmune diseases;
  • Physical examination - the doctor examines the affected joints for signs of swelling, redness, warmth and deformity. The range of motion is also checked.

 

2. Imaging studies

Imaging studies are a key diagnostic tool as they provide a clear picture of structural changes in the joints. Various technologies are used:

  • X-ray - the most commonly used method to detect bone changes such as joint space narrowing, the presence of osteophytes or deformities;
  • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) - provides a more detailed view of soft tissues such as cartilage, tendons and muscles;
  • Ultrasound - often used to detect inflammation and fluid accumulation in the joints;
  • CT (computed tomography) - suitable for more complex cases, especially in ankylosing spondylitis or joint injuries.

 

3. Laboratory tests

Laboratory tests help confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific type of Arthritis. Commonly used tests include:

  • Rheumatoid factor (RF) test - helps diagnose rheumatoid Arthritis;
  • Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) - detects autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid Arthritis;
  • C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) - indicators of inflammation in the body;
  • Uric acid tests - to diagnose gout;
  • Joint fluid analysis - using an aspiration, the doctor takes a sample of the fluid in the joint to examine for the presence of crystals, infection or inflammation.

 

Laboratory tests

 

4. Differential diagnosis

The diagnosis of Arthritis requires ruling out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. This includes:

  • Infectious diseases (e.g. Lyme disease or sepsis);
  • Metabolic disorders (e.g. gout or pseudogout);
  • Degenerative diseases (e.g. osteoporosis or tendonitis).

 

5. Tracking symptoms

In some cases, a definitive diagnosis requires continued monitoring of symptoms. The doctor may monitor:

  • How the symptoms develop;
  • How the body responds to the initial treatment;
  • If there is a presence of new symptoms that may provide more clarity about the type of Arthritis.

 

Advice for patients during diagnosis

 

Patients play an active role in the diagnostic process. For better accuracy of results, it is important to:

  • Keep a diary for the symptoms - recording pain, stiffness and how they change throughout the day;
  • Provide information about family medical history;
  • Provide lifestyle details including diet, physical activity and potential injuries.

 

Importance of early diagnosis

 

Early diagnosis of Arthritis is critical because:

  • It allows treatment to begin before irreversible joint damage occurs;
  • It reduces the risk of serious complications such as deformities or systemic inflammation;
  • It improves quality of life through timely intervention.

 

6. How is Arthritis treated?

 

Arthritis treatment is aimed at relieving pain, improving joint function and preventing further damage. The choice of therapy depends on the type of Arthritis, its severity and the individual characteristics of the patient.

 

Medicines

 

Drug therapy is a major component of Arthritis treatment. It includes different classes of medications depending on the type and severity of the disease:

  • Painkillers - For example, paracetamol, which relieves pain but does not reduce inflammation;
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - Ibuprofen or naproxen reduce both pain and inflammation;
  • Corticosteroids - Used for severe inflammation by injection or tablets such as Prednisone;
  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) - Methotrexate and sulfasalazine help slow the progression of the disease in rheumatoid Arthritis;
  • Biologic drugs - These are newer medications such as adalimumab and etanercept that block specific inflammatory processes.

 

Medicines

 

Physiotherapy

 

Physiotherapy is an integral part of treatment, especially for chronic forms of Arthritis. It helps to:

  • Improve mobility - Through exercises that increase range of motion;
  • Strengthen muscles - Stronger muscles can reduce the load on joints;
  • Relieve pain - Methods such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation and thermotherapy are used.

 

Surgery

 

When conservative methods do not yield results, surgical treatment may be necessary:

  • Joint replacement (arthroplasty) - Most often used for severe osteoarthritis of the knees or hips;
  • Arthroscopy - A minimally invasive procedure to remove damaged tissue or fluid from a joint;
  • Joint fusion (arthrodesis) - Used to stabilize joints when other methods are ineffective.

 

Alternative medicine

 

Some patients find relief through alternative methods that can be used as a complement to conventional treatment:

  • Acupuncture - Reduces pain and stimulates blood circulation to affected areas;
  • Homeopathy - Used to relieve symptoms of some types of Arthritis;
  • Supplements - Glucosamine, chondroitin and curcumin can help reduce inflammation and maintain cartilage.

 

7. Which natural herbs help with Arthritis?

 

Herbs are a natural way to relieve the symptoms of Arthritis. They can reduce inflammation, relieve pain and support joint health.

 

1. Turmeric

The curcumin in Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation and pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid Arthritis.

Add it to meals, drink as tea or take as a dietary supplement.

 

Turmeric

 

2. Ginger

Ginger contains gingerols and chagaols, which reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation in the joints.

Apply an ointment for Joint pain in which Ginger is one of the main ingredients, prepare tea or add it as a spice to dishes.

 

3. Arnica

Arnica relieves pain and reduces inflammation when applied topically.

Use ointments or oils with Arnica extract to massage the affected joints.

 

4. Comfrey

Comfrey helps regenerate cartilage and relieve pain.

Use Comfrey ointments or compresses topically on painful joints.

 

5. Nettle

Rich in silicon and minerals, Nettle strengthens bones and joints, relieves pain and reduces inflammation.

Drink nettle tea or use fresh leaves for compresses.

 

Nettle

 

6. Dandelion

The antioxidants and minerals in Dandelion support joint health, detoxify the body and reduce the inflammatory processes.

Make a tea from the dried leaves or root of Dandelion. You can also add fresh leaves to salads.

 

8. Conclusion

 

Arthritis is a disease that affects millions of people and requires special attention and care. Knowing the symptoms, causes and treatment options is key to successfully managing the condition.

Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce pain and improve quality of life. Regardless of the type of Arthritis, consultation with a specialist and an individual approach are crucial for effective management of the disease.

 

SOURCES:

1. Mayo Clinic: Arthritis - Symptoms and Causes (14.02.2025)
2. Arthritis Foundation: What Is Arthritis? (14.02.2025)