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Causes of Three Common Types of Arthritis

Generally speaking, arthritis refers to a medical condition resulting in joint inflammation. However, there are many different types of arthritis, and their causes and symptoms can vary greatly.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it is characterized by joint pain in areas of the body such as the hips, knees, feet, and spine. This type of arthritis is most common in older adults, as the cause is usually related to “wear and tear” on the body and the joints over time. Due to this wear and tear, cartilage between the bones becomes worn down over time until there is little cushion between the bones as they move, resulting in painful friction.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of arthritis that most commonly affects the hands, wrists, shoulders, and knees. It can occur at any age, and because it is an autoimmune disease, the symptoms can start very suddenly or come on gradually. Each person’s symptoms can vary greatly, though some people with RA will also experience lumps on the skin known as rheumatoid nodules. There is no known cause for RA, and unfortunately, the swelling and inflammation connected to this type of arthritis can also begin to affect organs such as the heart and lungs.

Psoriatic Arthritis

This condition occurs when patients have inflammation of not just the joints, but the skin as well. Patients with psoriatic arthritis have patches of red or white areas of inflamed skin, usually around the elbows, knees, and scalp. The specific symptoms of this condition can vary greatly from person to person. For example, some people will have just a couple of joints affected, whereas others may experience pain in joints all over the body. The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is believed to be an autoimmune problem that causes the body to mistakenly attack healthy joints, resulting in inflammation and pain.

Are you experiencing symptoms of arthritis or a similar rheumatic disease? If so, then schedule an appointment with Arthritis & Osteoporosis Treatment Center. For more than 30 years, we have been providing patients in Jacksonville and the surrounding areas with the quality care, treatment, and management they deserve. Call us to find out more or to schedule an appointment.