Pathophysiology of Arthritis
Understanding the pathophysiology of arthritis, whether it affects the hand or the knee, is essential to establishing treatment plans that effectively reduce pain, inflammation, and preserve joint function while enhancing the quality of life for those impacted.
Inflammatory Response
- The afflicted joint has inflammation as a common side effect of arthritis.
- The body naturally reacts to damage or irritation with inflammation, but in the case of arthritis, this reaction becomes damaging and persistent.
- Joint injury is aggravated by the production of inflammatory mediators including enzymes and cytokines.
Cartilage Degradation
- The smooth tissue that covers the ends of the bones in a joint, called cartilage, acts as a cushion and facilitates easy movement.
- Inflammation and other reasons lead to cartilage deterioration in arthritis.
- This causes friction between the bones when moving, which impairs joint function and causes pain and stiffness.
Synovial Inflammation
- The thin membrane that borders the joint capsule and secretes synovial fluid which lubricates and nourishments the joint is called the synovium.
- Synovial fluid production increases when arthritis causes inflammation of the synovium. This worsens joint injury by causing joint swelling (effusion).
Bone Remodeling
- Additionally, bone structure beneath the arthritis might be impacted.
- Bone erosion and the development of osteophytes (bone spurs) are examples of aberrant bone remodeling that can be restored on by persistent inflammation and mechanical stress.
- These modifications may result in instability and deformity by changing the joint’s integrity and shape.
Causes and Symptoms of Arthritis
The “Arthritis” definition includes a group or a wide range of over 100 illnesses and ailments that are characterized by joint stiffness and inflammation. Understanding arthritis symptoms and arthritis treatment helps in early diagnosis of the condition.
Osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and gout are the four most prevalent forms of arthritis. In this article, we will study about arthritis – symptoms, types, prevention, and treatment of arthritis.
Table of Content
- Arthritis Meaning
- Arthritis Types
- Osteoarthritis (OA)
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Arthritis Gout
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
- Lupus
- Arthritis of Knee (Osteoarthritis of the Knee)
- Arthritis of Hand (Osteoarthritis of the Hand)
- Pathophysiology of Arthritis
- Inflammatory Response
- Cartilage Degradation
- Synovial Inflammation
- Bone Remodeling
- Causes of Arthritis
- Symptoms of Arthritis
- Diagnosis and Treatment
- Prevention of Arthritis