Arthritis, Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Medical Specialities
- Orthopaedics, Trauma & Joint Replacement
- Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis
-
Understanding Joint-Related Disorders
-
Arthritis is a general term for conditions that affect the joints and bones, often causing pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Two of the main forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
-
Osteoarthritis
-
Osteoarthritis is the most common type. It occurs when the protective cartilage between bones gradually wears away, causing the bones to rub against each other, leading to pain and stiffness. It often develops in people aged 40-60 and initially presents with mild symptoms that worsen over time.
-
Early osteoarthritis treatment involves lifestyle changes, exercise, weight management, and physiotherapy. Clinical guidelines strongly recommend exercise and weight control as first-line measures.
-
Rheumatoid Arthritis
-
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its own joints, leading to inflammation, cartilage damage, and bone erosion. It can affect individuals at any age, though it often begins between 30-50, and is more common in women.
-
Prompt rheumatoid arthritis treatment is vital. Current guidelines recommend early use of disease-modifying therapies (DMARDs) to preserve joint function and reduce long-term damage.
-
A rheumatoid arthritis test may involve blood work (e.g., rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies), imaging, and clinical assessment as part of the diagnosis.
-
Treatment Pathways
-
For both conditions, the approach may include:
- Medications for pain relief and inflammation control
- Physiotherapy, joint protection, and exercise to maintain mobility
- In selected severe cases, surgery (joint replacement or realignment) may be considered
-
A specialist arthritis specialist doctor can guide the choice of treatment, whether you’re managing early osteoarthritis or advanced rheumatoid joint disease. There are specilised doctors who treat this condition and Zydus has some of the renowned ones who treat immune disorders like rheumatitis or Rheumatoid Arthritis
-
Preventive Measures & Long-Term Care
-
Weight control is critical in slowing joint damage, especially in osteoarthritis. Low-impact, weight-bearing exercises such as walking or swimming help support joints. Disuse of joints is not recommended; regular movement and rehabilitation make a real difference.
-
For rheumatoid arthritis, monitoring and adjusting treatment regularly under a rheumatoid arthritis specialist in Ahmedabad or an equivalent expert provider helps optimise outcomes and reduce complications.
