Arthritis encompasses over 100 diseases that affect the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling by altering the cartilage. Cartilage, which covers bone ends, enables smooth joint motion. As arthritis progresses, cartilage may wear away, leading to painful bone-on-bone friction. Though manageable with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, surgical intervention may become necessary.

ANATOMY

Bones, supporting our structure and forming joints, have cartilage for smooth movement. Synovium lines joints, secreting synovial fluid as a lubricant. Ligaments and tendons provide stability and movement power, both lined with synovium.

CAUSES

Arthritis, with over 100 types, results from aging, trauma, autoimmune or inflammatory diseases. Osteoarthritis, affecting 21 million Americans, erodes cartilage, causing bone spurs and pain. Rheumatoid Arthritis, a serious autoimmune condition, inflames synovium, leading to joint deterioration.

SYMPTOMS

Inflammation causes persistent pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, and reduced joint stability, impacting daily activities.

DIAGNOSIS

Physical exams, blood tests, and imaging (X-rays, MRI, bone scan) aid diagnosis by revealing joint conditions and abnormalities.

TREATMENT

Non-surgical options include rest, pain relievers, cortisone injections, viscosupplementation (FDA-approved for knees), physical therapy, acupuncture, and dietary supplements. Exercise programs like yoga and Pilates alleviate symptoms.

SURGERY

As arthritis progresses, surgery may be necessary. Options include synovectomy, osteotomy, joint fusion, or joint replacement with artificial joints made of metal, plastic, ceramics, or a combination.

RECOVERY

Recovery varies based on surgery type and joint involvement. Traditional surgeries take months, while minimally invasive procedures have shorter recovery times. Rehabilitation is crucial for joint mobilization and strengthening.

PREVENTION

Prevention involves understanding arthritis type and adopting measures like weight management, proper body mechanics, assistive devices, and aquatic therapy to minimize stress on joints.

Bones, the body's toughest tissues, can fracture under excessive pressure. A fracture, or broken bone, can result from injuries, prolonged stress, or bone-weakening diseases like Osteoporosis. Fractures vary, from hairline cracks to complex breaks requiring surgical intervention.

ANATOMY

With over 200 bones, your body's structure includes long, small, curved, and varied bones forming your skeleton. Bones, live tissues, produce blood cells, form joints, and safeguard internal organs. Layered materials compose bones, with the periosteum outer layer providing blood supply. Compact bone covers cancellous bone, which resembles a sponge, housing red marrow.

CAUSES

Fractures often result from falls, motor crashes, or sports injuries involving impact, high stress, or repetitive forces. Diseases like Osteoporosis or bone tumors can weaken bones, making them susceptible to fractures.

SYMPTOMS

Fractures manifest with pain, swelling, bruising, and sometimes a visible deformity. Difficulty moving or weight-bearing, along with numbness or tingling, may occur.

DIAGNOSIS

Physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans, help diagnose fractures. Bone scans are useful for conditions like Osteoporosis or cancer-related fractures.

SURGERY

Surgery becomes necessary for improperly healing fractures or complex breaks. Options include Open Reduction and Internal Fixation or External Fixation, utilizing hardware like rods, screws, or plates to stabilize bones.

RECOVERY

Post-surgery, rehabilitation focuses on regaining movement, strength, and flexibility. Recovery times vary, with most fractures taking about 6 weeks to heal. Physical or occupational therapy aids in restoring function.

PREVENTION

Prevent fractures by driving carefully, wearing seatbelts, and maintaining a well-functioning vehicle. Avoid falls through regular physical exams, Bone Mineral Density Tests for Osteoporosis, and vision exams. Modify your home for safety, wear appropriate safety gear during sports, and prioritize bone health with a balanced diet, calcium, and Vitamin D. Avoid smoking, as it hinders bone healing.

Sprains and strains are common injuries, especially in those involved in sports, repetitive activities, or prone to falls. Sprains affect ligaments connecting bones, while strains involve muscles and tendons. Mild cases can heal with rest, while severe ones may necessitate rehabilitation or surgery.

ANATOMY

The skeleton comprises bones forming joints for movement, connected by ligaments, while muscles attached to bones by tendons facilitate movement.

CAUSES

• Sprain: Ligament injury due to force, like a fall or sports impact.

• Strain: Muscle or tendon injury from overuse, overstretching, repetitive motions, or direct force.

SYMPTOMS

• Sprains: Pain, bruising, swelling, audible pop, and difficulty moving joints in severe cases.

• Strains: Muscle pain, weakness, cramping, spasm, swelling, and possible tearing in moderate to severe cases.

DIAGNOSIS

Doctors diagnose through a physical exam, joint movement, and muscle strength tests. X-rays may be taken if a fracture is suspected.

TREATMENT

Immediate elevation and cold packs help prevent swelling. Treatment plans vary based on injury severity. Mild cases may benefit from physical or occupational therapy, while significant ones may require surgery or immobilization with braces or splints.

AM I AT RISK?

You may be at risk if:

• Your body is deconditioned or overweight.

• You engage in sports or physically demanding activities.

• Job duties involve repetitive movements.

• You have a history of strains or sprains.

• You are prone to falls.

COMPLICATIONS

Preventive measures include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, warming up and cooling down before and after exercise, wearing appropriate footwear and safety equipment, and fall-risk prevention discussions, especially for older adults.

Tendonitis is an inflammatory condition affecting tendons, strong fibers connecting muscles to bones, commonly caused by joint overuse. Symptoms include pain and tenderness, usually relieved with rest and anti-inflammatory medications. Chronic cases may require surgery if nonoperative treatment is ineffective.

ANATOMY

Tendons, varying in size, connect muscles to bones, facilitating joint movement. They play a crucial role in moving bones within joints.

CAUSES

Tendonitis arises from tendon irritation due to overuse, injury, structural abnormalities, or underlying conditions like arthritis or diabetes. Common locations include the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and heel.

SYMPTOMS

Pain and tenderness, especially near joints, characterize tendonitis. Pain may intensify with movement or activity and may persist at night. The affected tendon area may exhibit warmth and redness.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis involves reviewing medical history, conducting examinations, and specific tests for each tendon. Your doctor may inquire about contributing circumstances and ask you to perform movements against resistance.

TREATMENT

Treatment options include using splints, casts, or braces for tendon rest and healing. Ice packs, anti-inflammatory medications, or cortisone injections may be recommended. Physical or occupational therapy aids in restoring function and preventing future injury.

SURGERY

Surgery may be necessary for chronic tendon changes or inflammation. Chronic degeneration and inflammation can lead to tendon tears, requiring surgical repair. Techniques vary based on tendon condition and location.

RECOVERY

Recovery from tendonitis is individualized and influenced by various factors. Your doctor will provide guidance on expectations during the recovery period.

PREVENTION

Preventing tendonitis involves regular exercise to maintain muscle strength and flexibility. Proper stretching is crucial in reducing the risk of tendon irritation and inflammation.