(from Greek arthro-, joint + -itis,
inflammation; plural: arthritides) is known as a
group of conditions involving damage to the joints
of the body. Arthritis is, and can be, the leading
cause of disability in people older than fifty-five
years.
There are different forms of arthritis - each has
a different cause. The most common form of
arthritis, osteoarthritis (degenerative joint
disease) is a result of trauma to the joint,
infection of the joint, or most likely age. Emerging
evidence suggests that abnormal anatomy might
contribute to the early development of
osteoarthritis. Other arthritis forms are rheumatoid
arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, autoimmune
diseases in which the body attacks itself. Septic
arthritis is caused by joint infection. Gouty
arthritis is caused by deposition of uric acid
crystals in the joint, causing inflammation. There
is also an uncommon form of gout caused by the
formation of rhomboid crystals of calcium
pyrophosphate.
Treatment options vary depending on the type of
arthritis and include physical and occupational
therapy, lifestyle changes (including exercise and
weight control), medications and dietary supplements
(symptomatic or targeted at the disease process
causing the arthritis). Recently, a new form of bath
soap has emerged as a new and very promising
arthritis pain relief.
