The articulations represent the connection of at least two bones. The heads of these bones are covered in a durable, elastic substance- the cartilage, which minimizes their friction and absorbs forces. The articulation is protected by the joint capsule that also has the role to stabilize it. Within these devices, there is a synovial membrane, containing the synovial fluid that nourishes and lubricates the cartilage, to ensure a proper function.

Rheumatoid arthritis represents the chronic inflammation of the articulations, caused by the attack of the organism's own immune system on the articulations, a partly similar reaction to an allergy. The result is permanent, progressive and painful.

Synovium is one of the healthy components attacked by the released enzymes. It inflames and generates pain.

Symptoms

Women are three times more at risk than men. The first to be affected are the small articulations of the hands and feet; usually more articulations are attacked at the time. The symptoms worsen in the morning. 25% of the cases of rheumatoid arthritis develop subcutaneous pea-sized nodules. They are made of scar tissues and other products additional to inflammation. They don't hurt but they may appear in the ankles, the back of the skull, the back of forearms or in the elbows.

The systemic character of this disorder also generates. Additional symptoms, besides pain and rigidity: fever, anemia or muscle aches. These symptoms should not be neglected, as general as they may seem.

How is it diagnosed?

Although the X rays are unable to diagnose RA, their purpose is to eliminate the possibility of other disorders.

The Latex test is the most common procedure at this respect. It identifies the blood anti bodies called rheumatoid factor present in blood only in case of synovial inflammation. Even if it may not show from the very beginning, the test is positive for the majority of the people affected by RA. It can also indicate other diseases but the cases are very rare.

The second step that follows the diagnosis is to determine the conditions activity by means of a sedimentation rate test which implies the drainage of the blood, to allow it to settle for a blood. Inflammation is indicated by a high rate of sedimentation. A follow-up test is necessary to indicate whether the inflammation increases or decreases. The results determine the necessary treatment.

The treatment of the rheumatoid arthritis

The treatment uses, in the beginning, non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs like Advil or Aleve to determine the inflammation and the pain to retreat. Because of their side effects, involving gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems, the doses must be very carefully measured. To prevent the disorder from progressing, methotrexate is often used.

Besides injectable corticosteroids, stretching exercises are also necessary. No more than 3 corticosteroid injections are recommended because they don't have effect any longer or may even increase the damage.

Because rheumatoid arthritis is a very complicated disease, the patient, his or her podiatrist, the general physician and the rheumatologist must work together in order to determine the most appropriate treatment.