By Andrew Siyabalawatte, Oct 2022
Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain and mobility issues worldwide. Many people ask, “What is arthritis?” The simplest explanation is that arthritis refers to inflammation and irritation inside a joint, which can affect people of all ages-not just older adults.
Although arthritis may feel like the body is breaking down, it is actually the immune system’s attempt to protect, repair, and stabilise joints under stress.
How Does Arthritis Begin?
Arthritis is not always genetic. In many cases, it develops slowly due to ongoing pressure or stress on the joints over time. Repetitive strain, poor posture, previous injuries, and inflammation can all contribute to the gradual development of arthritis.
The good news? With correct care, early attention, and supportive treatment, the progression of arthritis can often be slowed or better managed.
Different Types of Arthritis
Many people believe arthritis is just one condition, but it actually includes over 100 types of joint disorders. Some of the most common and most searched forms of arthritis include:
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage in a joint slowly wears down, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Arthritis, often not genetically predisposed, can result from prolonged pressure on joints. This exposure over time, will naturally predispose the development of Arthritis. Correct care and attention can help prevent it.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune form of arthritis, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA can appear suddenly and usually affects small joints-especially in the hands and feet-on both sides of the body.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Swollen, tender joints
Long-lasting morning stiffness
Fatigue and low energy
A general feeling of being unwell
Possible fever or weight loss
Because RA is inflammatory and progressive, early diagnosis is essential for protecting joint health.
This can make it challenging to engage in daily activities and maintain a good quality of life.
Other symptoms may include fatigue, fever, and weight loss. If you suspect you have rheumatoid arthritis, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
As the body tries to protect itself, it builds a support system which involves recruiting soft tissue (ligaments and muscles) to manage and protect the joints by reducing movement.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
Psoriatic arthritis is linked to psoriasis and can cause inflammation in both the skin and joints.
Common signs include:
Swollen fingers or toes (“sausage digits”)
Joint stiffness
Nail changes
Fatigue
Psoriatic arthritis shares symptoms with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, making an accurate diagnosis crucial.
The Difference Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
In Osteoarthritis, the joint cartilage is the first affected, then the following can happen –
- Tiny bits of extra bone, called osteophytes, can grow at the ends of a bone within a joint.
- There can be an increase in the amount of thick fluid inside the joint.
- The joint capsule can stretch, and the joint may lose its shape.
Rheumatoid Arthritis, unlike Osteoarthritis is inflammatory and can onset abruptly. This inflammation causes joint destruction and is known as an “auto-immune“ response.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis include:
- swollen and tender joints in the hands and feet
- severe tiredness, also called fatigue
- a general feeling of being unwell
Arthritis in the Neck
The joints in the neck are the most versatile and most mobile in the whole spine, meaning that these joints are less susceptible to developing arthritis than the rest of the spine. It’s ability to distribute the weight of the head evenly through these joints is one of its many skills.
Arthritis in the Back
The lower back joints are more prone to arthritis because they simply move less than the neck. . They sacrifice mobility for better stability as the final weight-bearing segments in the spine.
Arthritic Knee Brace Support
The Mueller Hg80 knee Brace is ideal to provide support for stiff, weak or painful knees, along with support for both, the Medial and Lateral Collateral ligaments, and cartilage (Meniscus) as well as arthritic problems.
I personally use this brace to play football, so its a high recommendation to help provide those that need a supportive brace for an arthritic knee. It’s lightweight, comfortable and breathable. It will definitely put your mind and most importantly, your knee at ease.
Here at Back To Health Wellness, we also offer several treatments to help our clients manage Arthritis and the pain associated with it.
Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a drug-free, non-invasive manual therapy that aims to restore the natural movement, limited by Arthritis.
Massage
Massage helps relieve pain and eases the muscle stiffness associated with Arthritis by improving circulation, helping to reduce inflammation. This translates to enhanced blood flow to arthritic joints, improved movement, and reduced pain.
Low Level Laser Therapy
Low Level laser Therapy is a painless, effective and clinically proven treatment for pain and tissue repair. Recent studies have well documented its effectiveness in managing pain in Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis patients.
Spinal Correction
By combining chiropractic techniques, osteopathy, massage, and targeted exercises, we help retrain the spine into a stronger, healthier alignment. This reduces pressure on joints and supports lasting pain relief.
Arthritis-whether osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or spinal arthritis-can affect daily life, but it doesn’t have to take over. With the right treatment, posture support, lifestyle changes, and early intervention, many people achieve significant pain relief and better mobility.
If you suspect arthritis or are dealing with ongoing joint discomfort, seeking professional advice early can make a meaningful difference.