Osteoarthritis

• Characterized by pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. In OA, the protective lining of the affected joint is damaged to the point where possible bone damage occurs. Hips, knees, hands and feet are the most commonly identified sites of OA. This type of arthritis is often associated with advancing age and affects more women than men, in general. Injury, weight and repetitive motion are factors which can cause or aggravate OA.
  
  

Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory condition which can affect joints, blood cells and the linings of the heart and lungs. There is a specific blood test by which diagnosis is made. It occurs symmetrically in the joints; that is, if one knee is affected, the other knee is as well. RA causes inflammation, pain and swelling in the joints much like OA, but it can also cause damage to the point where there is a loss a function. The arthritic joints appear to have knots or nodules and are warm to touch. Affected persons may experience flares and remissions. It is a progressive condition which is estimated to have been diagnosed in 1.3 million Americans.
  
  

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

• Classified as a type of arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica (PR) presents with muscle and joint pain, stiffness, fever, malaise and weight loss. It is an immune system condition and typically has duration of two years. Those affected are most often over 50, Caucasian and female. The overall symptoms of PR are similar to those of RA. However, those persons with PR have a negative RA blood test.
  
  

Gout

• Gout, or gouty arthritis, is a very painful condition which most commonly affects the great toe. This type of arthritis is characterized by the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints and under the skin. Kidney stones and kidney dysfunction are possible complications of gout. Flares of this condition can be controlled by lifestyle management and medication. As uric acid is a byproduct of purines, foods containing high levels of purines, such as seafood, smoked or cured meats and gravies, should be eaten in moderation.
  
  

Psoriatic Arthritis

• Associated with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis is diagnosed in up to 23 percent of those with this chronic inflammatory skin disease. Psoriatic arthritis is more prevalent in Caucasians in the age range of 30-55 years old. There is no definitive answer as to who develops arthritis and who does not, but it is thought that environmental factors may increase the risk. There are five categories of psoriatic arthritis which can affect any joint, including within the spine. Treatment involves the same medications used to treat RA. This condition can be progressive and lead to debility and limited function of affected joints.