There are over 100 types of arthritic conditions known, however, in this blog we are concentrating on the most common ones to help you with your understanding of the different types of arthritis.

General symptoms of Arthritis;

  • Joint Pain – Persistent or occasional pain in affected joints
  • Stiffness – Especially in the morning or after inactivity
  • Swelling – Due to inflammation in the joints
  • Redness and Warmth – Joints may appear red and feel warm to the touch
  • Limited Range of Motion – Difficulty moving the joint freely

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the entire joint structure. Over time, the protective cartilage and joint fluid break down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This condition commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine. As chiropractors, we see areas of arthritis in the neck and spine that correlate with joint stiffness and shifts in normal spinal alignment. We also see that a history of sports injuries or falls can increase the likelihood of developing OA in the future.

Symptoms of OA

  • Joint stiffness and pain that worsens with activity
  • Cracking or grating sounds (crepitus) when moving joints
  • Swelling and bone spurs (bony growths)

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining, leading to chronic inflammation. This results in pain, swelling, joint deformities, and loss of function. RA typically affects joints symmetrically, such as both knees or hands, and can also involve internal organs like the heart, lungs, and eyes.

Symptoms of RA

  • Symmetrical joint pain (affecting both sides of the body)
  • Swollen, tender, and warm joints
  • Fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite
  • Joint deformities over time

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)

A form of rheumatoid arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Though similar to RA in its autoimmune nature, JIA can have different disease patterns and progression compared to adult-onset RA.

Gout

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It leads to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness, often in the big toe, though it can affect other joints as well. Gout attacks can occur unexpectedly and may be triggered by diet or lifestyle factors.

Symptoms of gout:

  • Sudden, intense pain (commonly in the big toe)
  • Swelling, redness, and extreme tenderness in affected joints
  • Pain that flares up at night and may last for days

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition that commonly affects people with psoriasis, a skin disorder. It leads to joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, along with skin symptoms like red, scaly patches. It can also affect areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bones, leading to additional pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of PsA:

  • Joint pain with skin rashes (scaly, red patches)
  • Nail changes (pitting, separation from the nail bed)
  • Swelling in fingers and toes (sausage-like appearance)

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Lupus is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that can impact multiple organs, including joints, skin, kidneys, and the heart. It often presents with joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, and sensitivity to sunlight. The symptoms and severity of lupus can vary widely among individuals.

Symptoms of lupus:

  • Joint pain and swelling
  • Butterfly-shaped rash on the face
  • Fatigue, fever, and organ involvement (e.g., kidney, heart, brain)

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and large joints. It can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, especially in the lower back. Over time, it may cause the vertebrae to fuse, resulting in a loss of spinal flexibility.

Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis)

Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disorder that leads to skin thickening and tightening. It can also affect internal organs, causing symptoms that range from mild to severe. Blood vessel abnormalities and changes in tissue structure are common characteristics of this condition.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disorder that causes pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, neck, and hips. It is often associated with chronic inflammation and is more common in older adults.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a central nervous system disorder that leads to widespread pain, tenderness, and fatigue. It is not a true form of arthritis but shares similar symptoms, such as joint and muscle pain. Other associated symptoms include sleep disturbances, mood changes, and cognitive difficulties.

Symptoms:

  • Widespread pain and tenderness
  • Fatigue, sleep disturbances, and brain fog
  • Sensitivity to touch, temperature, and light

Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of bursae, the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. It commonly occurs in areas such as the shoulders, elbows, and hips, leading to localized pain and swelling, particularly after repetitive movements or excessive strain on a joint.

Arthritis encompasses a wide range of conditions, each affecting joints and tissues in unique ways. Understanding the different types can help in identifying symptoms and managing joint health effectively.

How can Chiropractic Care help?

Keeping the spine mobile is essential for managing osteoarthritis because movement helps to nourish the joints, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness.

What else can you do to help yourself?

  • Gentle mobility exercises promote better circulation, which can decrease inflammation and ease discomfort.
  • Strengthening the muscles that support the spine also reduces strain on the joints, helping to maintain proper alignment and prevent further degeneration.

By incorporating regular movement into your routine, you can improve your spinal health, enhance your quality of life, and keep doing the activities you love with less pain.

 

Lisa Smycz

Melbourne Chiropractor 

The Australian Chiropractors Association has a free App called Straighten up Australia. CLICK HERE. If you would like to know more about what front on posture should look like CLICK HERE.  Find out how to assess side posture, please CLICK HERE.

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