Understanding Arthritis: A Common Condition with Life-Changing Impact

Joint pain isn’t just something that comes with age. For many people—young and old—it’s a daily challenge. Whether it’s your knees, hands, hips, or back, living with stiff or swollen joints can affect how you move, work, sleep, and enjoy life.

At Adam Vital Hospital, we meet patients every day who struggle with one of the most widespread chronic conditions in the world: arthritis. And yet, despite how common it is, arthritis is often misunderstood.

Let’s take a closer look at what arthritis really is, what causes it, and how it can be treated—so you or your loved one can take the right steps toward relief and recovery.

What Is Arthritis?

Simply put, arthritis is inflammation of the joints. It’s not just one disease—it’s a term that covers over 100 different conditions that affect the joints, the tissues around the joints, and other connective tissues.

The symptoms vary, but most forms of arthritis cause:

Joint pain

Stiffness, especially in the morning or after resting

Swelling

Redness or warmth in the joint

Reduced range of motion

For some, these symptoms come and go. For others, the pain is constant and can gradually get worse over time.

Types of Arthritis

There are many different types of arthritis, but here are some of the most common forms we treat at Adam Vital Hospital:

1. Osteoarthritis (OA)

This is the most common type. Often called “wear and tear” arthritis, it occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time.

Common in older adults, but can also result from injuries or overuse.

Affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.

Causes stiffness and pain that worsens with activity.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints.

Can affect people of any age.

Often begins in smaller joints—like fingers or wrists—and progresses.

May also cause fatigue, fever, and systemic inflammation.

3. Psoriatic Arthritis

Linked to the skin condition psoriasis. Can affect any joint and may also involve swelling of fingers and toes.

4. Gout

Caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe pain—often in the big toe.

5. Ankylosing Spondylitis

A form of arthritis that affects the spine, leading to stiffness and fusion of vertebrae over time.

Who Gets Arthritis?

Arthritis can affect anyone, but some risk factors increase your chances:

Age – risk increases as you get older

Family history – some types run in families

Injury – past joint injuries can increase the risk

Obesity – adds stress to joints, especially knees and hips

Repetitive strain – certain jobs or sports that involve repeated movements

It’s not a disease limited to the elderly. We see young adults, middle-aged individuals, and even teenagers with arthritis, especially autoimmune types.

What Are the Early Warning Signs?

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to see a doctor:

Persistent joint pain or stiffness, especially in the morning

Swelling in one or more joints

Reduced ability to move a joint

Clicking, grinding, or a feeling of instability

Episodes of extreme pain or heat in a joint (such as with gout)

Many people ignore early signs, hoping they’ll go away on their own. Unfortunately, arthritis is often progressive—meaning it can get worse if left untreated.

How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?

At Adam Vital Hospital, our approach starts with a thorough history and physical examination. We ask about your symptoms, daily activities, family history, and any previous injuries.

We may recommend:

Blood tests to look for markers of inflammation or autoimmune activity

X-rays to check for joint damage or narrowing

MRI or ultrasound for more detailed imaging of soft tissue and early joint changes

Joint fluid analysis in cases like gout or infection

Accurate diagnosis is the first step to building an effective treatment plan.

How Is Arthritis Treated?

There is no single cure for arthritis, but there are many ways to manage the symptoms and slow the disease progression.

1. Medications

Depending on the type of arthritis, treatment may include:

Pain relievers (paracetamol, NSAIDs)

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Disease-modifying drugs for conditions like RA

Steroid injections to reduce inflammation in specific joints

2. Physical Therapy

Movement is medicine. Our in-house physiotherapists help patients maintain mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain with:

Stretching and strengthening routines

Joint protection strategies

Posture and gait correction

Electrotherapy and hydrotherapy

3. Lifestyle Adjustments

Small changes can make a big difference:

Weight management to reduce stress on joints

Low-impact exercise like swimming or cycling

Anti-inflammatory diet

Avoiding repetitive joint strain

4. Surgery (in advanced cases)

If joint damage is severe, surgical options like joint replacement, arthroscopy, or joint fusion may be considered. Our orthopedic surgeons at Adam Vital Hospital are highly experienced in these procedures, with excellent outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Arthritis may be common, but it’s never normal to live in pain. If joint pain is holding you back, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and proper care can make all the difference in how you feel today—and in the years to come.

Contact Adam Vital Hospital to book your consultation.

Let’s take the first step together toward lasting relief and better joint health.