Arthritis

The causes of arthritis vary depending on the type. Osteoarthritis is often associated with aging, as the cartilage within joints naturally deteriorates over time. Additional factors, such as obesity, previous joint injuries, and genetic predisposition, can also increase the risk of osteoarthritis by placing extra stress on the joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis has an autoimmune cause, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but it is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors, as well as hormonal changes. Other types of arthritis, like gout, result from metabolic issues that cause crystal deposits in the joint, leading to pain and inflammation.
Arthritis can be exacerbated by lifestyle factors, including inactivity, poor posture, and repetitive joint strain. In many cases, a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to the development and progression of arthritis.

Diagnosing arthritis begins with a physical examination and a detailed review of medical history to assess joint pain, stiffness, and range of motion. During the examination, the clinician may check for signs of joint swelling, warmth, and redness, which are common indicators of inflammation. If arthritis is suspected, additional tests are often recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type.
Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, and ultrasound, are valuable tools for visualising joint structure. X-rays help reveal bone abnormalities, cartilage loss, and joint space narrowing, which are typical of osteoarthritis. MRI and ultrasound provide detailed views of soft tissues, including cartilage, tendons, and ligaments, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of joint health.
Blood tests may be performed, particularly if rheumatoid arthritis is suspected, to look for markers of inflammation and specific antibodies that indicate autoimmune activity. In cases of gout, uric acid levels are also tested to identify crystal deposits in the joints.

The treatment of arthritis focuses on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving joint function. For osteoarthritis, lifestyle changes like weight management, regular exercise, and dietary adjustments are often recommended to reduce joint stress and maintain mobility. Physical therapy is beneficial in strengthening muscles around the affected joints, enhancing stability and reducing pain.
Medications are commonly used in arthritis management. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) provide relief from pain and inflammation, while disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are used to slow disease progression in rheumatoid arthritis. In some cases, corticosteroid injections are administered directly into the joint to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
Advanced treatments such as hyaluronic acid injections, which improve joint lubrication, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which use growth factors to promote healing, may also be recommended. When conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgical options, such as joint replacement, may be considered, particularly for advanced arthritis affecting major joints like the hip or knee.

Booking an initial consultation at The Clinica is the first step in effectively managing arthritis. During this session, our specialist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, discuss your symptoms, and review your medical history to identify potential contributing factors. This thorough assessment helps in forming an accurate diagnosis and understanding the severity of the condition.
If necessary, imaging and blood tests will be arranged to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of arthritis. Once a diagnosis is established, a personalised treatment plan will be developed to manage symptoms, protect joint function, and support long-term joint health.