Arthritis is a prevalent health condition affecting people of all ages. Arthritis is an umbrella term for a group of disorders that cause inflammation in the joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis (OA): This is the most common form of arthritis and typically occurs with aging or as a result of joint injury. OA involves the breakdown of cartilage, the cushioning tissue at the ends of bones, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. It can affect multiple joints, leading to pain, swelling, and joint deformities.
Arthritis can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected. It is a leading cause of disability in the UK. Common risk factors include age, family history, gender (as certain types of arthritis are more common in women), and obesity.
Management of arthritis in the UK involves a multidisciplinary approach. General practitioners, rheumatologists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists play key roles in diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Medications, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, surgery are part of the comprehensive treatment plan.
Public health initiatives in the UK focus on raising awareness, providing education, and promoting early detection and intervention for arthritis. This includes efforts to encourage regular exercise, a healthy diet, and weight management to reduce the impact of arthritis symptoms.