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Living with arthritis presents many physical challenges that can affect daily life. This condition, characterized by joint inflammation, can cause stiffness and discomfort. Understanding the physical nature of arthritis is a key step in managing its impact on your body and maintaining your quality of life. This involves learning about the specific type you have, how it progresses, and how it may influence your mobility.
What Types Exist?
There are more than 100 forms of arthritis and related conditions. Each type has distinct characteristics and affects the body differently. Identifying the specific type is fundamental to understanding its physical effects.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. This form often affects joints in the hands, knees, hips, and spine. The breakdown of cartilage can lead to bone rubbing against bone, causing pain and restricted movement.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease. The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, causing painful swelling, primarily in the joints. It commonly affects multiple joints at once and can lead to joint damage if not managed. This condition often impacts the hands, wrists, and knees.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis affects some people who have psoriasis, a condition that features red patches of skin topped with silvery scales. Many people develop psoriasis first and are later diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling are the main signs and symptoms. It can affect any part of the body, including your fingertips and spine.
How Does Arthritis Progress?
The progression of arthritis varies among individuals and depends on the specific type. For many, the condition develops gradually over the years. Early signs might include occasional morning stiffness or minor joint aches after certain activities. As the condition advances, these symptoms can become more persistent.
Over time, the ongoing inflammation or cartilage wear can lead to more noticeable changes in the joints. You may experience reduced range of motion, making activities like bending or gripping more difficult. The physical progression is not always linear; some people experience periods of remission, where symptoms lessen, followed by flare-ups, where they intensify. Understanding this pattern helps in adapting routines to accommodate the body’s changing needs.
When Is Mobility Affected?
Arthritis can begin to affect mobility when joint pain and stiffness make movement difficult. Everyday actions that were once simple may become challenging. The impact on mobility often depends on which joints are affected and the severity of the symptoms.
Here are some ways it might impact mobility:
- Walking and Climbing Stairs: Arthritis in the knees, hips, or feet can make walking painful. Climbing stairs puts extra pressure on these joints, often increasing discomfort.
- Gripping and Holding Objects: When it affects the hands and wrists, simple tasks like opening a jar, writing, or holding a cup can become difficult.
- Bending and Reaching: Arthritis in the spine or hips may limit your ability to bend over or reach for items, affecting activities like tying your shoes or retrieving something from a high shelf.
These mobility challenges can influence independence and daily routines. Recognizing how arthritis affects your specific movements is the first step toward finding practical solutions and adaptations to support your lifestyle.
Consult a Specialist
Navigating the physical aspects of arthritis can be complex. Consulting a specialist, such as a rheumatologist or an orthopedic doctor, can provide you with a clear diagnosis and a personalized management plan. These professionals offer guidance tailored to your specific type and its progression. They can help you understand the changes in your body and recommend strategies to manage your physical symptoms effectively.
