Arthritis Explained: Types, Symptoms & Modern Treatment Options

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain and disability, affecting people of all ages. While many associate arthritis with old age, it can impact young adults and even children. Early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent long-term joint damage.

In this blog, we explain what arthritis is, its types, symptoms, and the latest treatment options available today.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of one or more joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement. Over time, untreated arthritis can damage cartilage, bones, and surrounding tissues, affecting daily activities and quality of life.

Common Symptoms of Arthritis

Although symptoms vary depending on the type, most arthritis patients experience:

• Joint pain and tenderness

• Stiffness (especially in the morning or after rest)

• Swelling around the joint

• Reduced range of motion

• Warmth or redness over the joint

• Difficulty walking, gripping, or climbing stairs

If joint pain lasts more than a few weeks, medical evaluation is essential.

Types of Arthritis

1. Osteoarthritis (OA)

The most common form of arthritis, caused by wear and tear of cartilage.

Commonly affects:

• Knees

• Hips

• Spine

• Hands

Who is at risk?

• People over 40

• Obesity

• Previous joint injuries

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks joint lining.

Key features:

• Symmetrical joint pain

• Morning stiffness lasting over an hour

• Fatigue and weakness

If untreated, RA can cause permanent joint deformity.

3. Psoriatic Arthritis

Occurs in people with psoriasis, affecting joints and skin.

Symptoms include:

• Joint pain and swelling

• Nail changes

• Sausage-shaped fingers or toes

4. Gout

Caused by uric acid crystal buildup in joints.

Common signs:

• Sudden severe pain

• Redness and swelling (often in the big toe)

Diet and lifestyle play a major role in gout management.

5. Ankylosing Spondylitis

A chronic inflammatory arthritis mainly affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints.

Symptoms:

• Persistent lower back pain

• Morning stiffness

• Reduced spinal flexibility

Early treatment helps prevent spinal fusion.

How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?

An orthopaedic specialist may recommend:

• Detailed clinical examination

• X-rays or MRI scans

• Blood tests (RA factor, CRP, ESR)

• Joint fluid analysis (in selected cases)

Accurate diagnosis helps tailor the right treatment.

Modern Treatment Options for Arthritis

1. Medications

• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs

• Disease-modifying drugs (for RA)

• Uric acid–lowering medicines (for gout)

2. Physiotherapy & Exercise

• Improves joint flexibility and strength

• Reduces stiffness and pain

• Prevents further joint damage

Customized physiotherapy plays a crucial role in arthritis care.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

• Weight management to reduce joint load

• Balanced anti-inflammatory diet

• Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and yoga

4. Injection Therapies

• Corticosteroid injections for pain relief

• Hyaluronic acid injections for knee arthritis

• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy in selected cases

5. Surgical Treatment

When conservative treatments fail:

• Arthroscopy

• Joint realignment procedures

• Partial or total joint replacement

Modern joint replacement surgeries offer excellent outcomes and faster recovery.

Can Arthritis Be Prevented?

While not all types can be prevented, you can reduce risk by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Staying physically active

• Avoiding joint injuries

• Managing chronic conditions early

When Should You See an Orthopaedic Doctor?

Consult an orthopaedic specialist if you have:

• Persistent joint pain or swelling

• Difficulty walking or using your hands

• Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes

• Pain not relieved by rest or medication

Early intervention prevents complications.

Expert Arthritis Care in Hyderabad

At DrTarunOrtho, we provide comprehensive arthritis evaluation and advanced treatment, focusing on pain relief, joint preservation, and long-term mobility. Our approach combines modern diagnostics, evidence-based treatments, and personalized care plans.

Book an Appointment Today

Don’t let arthritis limit your life. Early treatment makes all the difference.