Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 716.90      ICD10: M12.9      ICD11: FA2Z

Arthritis isn't a single disease, but rather an umbrella term for joint pain or joint disease.
It encompasses over 100 different conditions that affect the joints, tissues around the joint, and other connective tissues.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

Definition: Inflammation of one or more joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion.

Symptoms:
Pain in the joints
Stiffness (especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity)
Swelling
Redness and warmth around the joint
Decreased range of motion
Grating sensation when the joint is moved

Common Types:

Osteoarthritis (OA): The most common type, caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints over time. Often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joints (synovium), causing inflammation and damage.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): A type of inflammatory arthritis that affects people who have psoriasis (a skin condition).
Gout: Caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain.
Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - SLE): An autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body, including the joints.
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine.

Causes: The causes of arthritis vary depending on the type. Some common factors include:

Age: The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age.
Genetics: Some types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis, have a genetic component.
Injury: Previous joint injuries can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Obesity: Excess weight puts more stress on joints, especially the knees, hips, and spine.
Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are caused by the body's immune system attacking its own tissues.
Infection: Some infections can trigger arthritis.

Diagnosis: A doctor typically diagnoses arthritis through:

Physical Exam: Checking for joint swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
Medical History: Gathering information about symptoms, family history, and other medical conditions.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI scans, and ultrasound can help visualize the joints and identify damage.
Blood Tests: Can help identify specific types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

Treatment: There is no cure for most types of arthritis, but treatments are available to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. Treatment options include:

Medications: Pain relievers, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and corticosteroids.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, and reduce pain.
Occupational Therapy: Learning ways to protect joints and make daily tasks easier.
Assistive Devices: Canes, walkers, braces, and other devices to support joints and reduce pain.
Surgery: In some cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.
Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can help manage arthritis symptoms.
Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture, massage, and yoga may provide some relief from pain and stiffness.

Impact: Arthritis can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. It can lead to chronic pain, disability, and decreased productivity.

In short, arthritis is a complex group of conditions that cause joint pain and inflammation. While there is often no cure, effective treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. It's important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment if you suspect you have arthritis.