Arthritis is the swelling of the joints. This is a rather common disease that can affect any age group. There are over 100 types of arthritis with differing causes, symptoms and treatments. Let’s take a closer look at the common types, symptoms and treatment of arthritis.
Of the different types of arthritis osteoarthritis, rheumatoid and gout are the most common. Osteoarthritis is caused by the wearing of the cartilage layer between bones and is most difficult to treat.
Gout is due to accumulation and formulation of monosodium urate crystals or MSU crystals. This causes inflammation and pain in the joints, typically the big toes. The damage caused by gout is not limited to the joints but can spread to the other body parts such as kidney as well.
Rheumatoid is due to disorder of body’s immune system. All the joints in the body are susceptible to rheumatoid. There is no permanent treatment of rheumatoid but some medications, healthy diet and exercise can be of help.
The common symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, tenderness and feeling of warmth. The different types of arthritis have their own individual characteristics and symptoms as well. For example osteoarthritis and gout commonly affect the weight bearing joints and big toes. Rheumatoid can affect any joint but shows symmetry, i.e. if the left joint is affected the right would be as well.
Some of the common causes responsible for or increasing the chances of, arthritis are age, obesity, genetic, immunological or hormonal reasons, viral or bacterial infections, nutritional deficiencies, harmful work habits etc.
The diagnosis tools used before arthritis treatment may involve checking medical history, physical examination, x-ray, CT scan, MRI etc.
The various types of remedies for arthritis include home made arthritic treatment, preventive measures, special exercises, medicinal remedies and surgical treatment for arthritis as well.
The home made treatment for arthritis may include hot and cold therapy for pain relief and for loosening the stiffness of the joints, healthy diet and weight loss. Taking proper rest and avoiding activities that put pressure on the joints, stretching exercises etc can help in arthritis treatment. Specialized exercises that strengthen the muscles without putting stress on joints, such as swimming are also effective in treatment for arthritis.
Medicinal treatment for arthritis may include pain relief creams or drugs and NSAID for reducing inflammation. Corticosteroids help reduce the immune system activities and thus can help in rheumatoid arthritis treatment. There are also several dietary supplement medicines such as flexeze fortify that can help promote the cartilage building and help in arthritis treatment in general.
The surgical treatment for arthritis may involve removal of damaged cartilage tissues, shaping or reshaping of bones that may involve bone grafting or use of artificial material as well. In extreme cases entire joint can be removed as well.

Overall although it’s not a simple disease, there are various remedies and treatment for arthritis that can help an arthritis patient live a full and happy life.