Types of Arthritis

Many people suffer from Arthritis, but few people realize that arthritis can manifest itself in many forms and names.  The most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.  Both have two different effects on the body and in different locations.  There are literally over 100 different types of arthritis today. 

Here are some of the more popular forms:

Osteoarthritis (OA) – The most popular type of arthritis amongst the elderly.  Usually OA degenerates the cartilage and bones leaving the person uncomfortable in their back, knees, hips and neck.  Usually found in both men and women past the age of 40.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – An irregularity in the body’s immune system that causes pain and discomfort through inflammation of the joints.  RA also attacks the bone and cartilage and begins to break them down.  Prevalent in women more so than men it affects the joints on both sides of the body at the same time.

Fibromylagia – a painful disease that afflicts distinct areas and tender points.  Fibromylagia affects certain places in the body than others.  Often, disturbed sleeping patterns and stiffness accompany a patient with Fibromylagia.

Gout – Otherwise known as “crystal arthritis”, Gout forms small crystals inside of the joint space.  As the body exerts full range of movement, the crystals are removed from the space and inflammation occurs.  This painful inflammation can affect multiple joints.