Arthritis is simply defined as inflammation of the joints – and there are over 100 types. While arthritis most commonly affects people who are over 65 years old, it can also affect younger patients, including children. If you are experiencing the symptoms of arthritis, then it is never too early to seek out arthritis treatment.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is both the most common type of arthritis and the most common chronic joint disorder. It affects over 30 million people in the United States alone – or roughly one in ten Americans. It is consequently one of the most common causes of disability. Osteoarthritis is also called degenerative arthritis, wear-and-tear arthritis, and degenerative joint disease.
Age is one of the most common causes of osteoarthritis, simply because older people have accumulated more joint damage over the decades. In fact, most people show some symptoms of osteoarthritis by the time they reach 70.
Younger people, however, can develop osteoarthritis, especially if they have suffered an injury involving a joint, like dislocation or torn cartilage. Obesity, which puts more strain on the joints, also increases the chances of developing osteoarthritis.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease, which means that the patient has an overactive immune system that attacks the joints and other parts of the body.
Like osteoarthritis, a susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis can run in families. It is also more likely to affect women and obese people. Most patients, however, start developing rheumatoid arthritis at a younger age than osteoarthritis patients. Most RA patients begin developing symptoms when they are between 40 and 60 years old. Arthritis treatment can begin as soon as you start experiencing symptoms.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood that then forms sharp urate crystals in a joint, most commonly the big toe. Gout, however, can also affect other joints like the fingers, ankles, wrists, knees, and elbows. Gout takes the form of sudden bouts of pain that usually start at night and lasts hours. Even after the initial attack subsides, the patient will experience lingering discomfort that can last for months.
Men are more likely to develop gout, and they often do so between the ages of 30 and 50. Women’s susceptibility to gout increases after they enter menopause.
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If you have arthritis, or are experiencing the symptoms of it, then arthritis treatment at Phoenix Regenerative Medicine in Phoenix, AZ may be just what you need. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about the treatments we offer!
