Aching Joints, What are the symptoms and what can be done? As we age or engage in strenuous physical activity, one of the effects on our bodies can be aching joints.
The most typical diagnosis for such a condition is arthritis.
This condition can be defined most simply as joint inflammation.
Typically, the condition is caused by daily wear and tear on a joint, leading to breakdown of cartilage and cushioning connective tissues.
Ultimately this will lead to actual bone-to-bone contact which is the cause of the often debilitating joint pain associated with arthritis.
Another type of related condition that must also be mentioned as well is rheumatoid arthritis, also known as rheumatism.
This is actually an aspect of a larger autoimmune disorder, where the body's own immune system turns on itself, attacking various tissues and systems in the body.
This can lead to a similar breakdown of connective tissues as in traditional osteoarthritis and also displays the same type of pain.
Both osteoarthritis and rheumatism are incurable but can be treated and managed effectively through medication (various non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs have shown effectiveness).
The use of orthotics devices or joint braces, physical therapy, lifestyle changes including weight loss and dietary changes can also help ease the pain.
In some extreme cases and if the disease has progressed to a completely debilitating state, total joint replacement surgery can be an option.
So, if you suffer regularly from aching joints, arthritis or rheumatism then know that there is hope for you.
Breakthroughs continue to be made as technology moves forward and new medications and treatment options are becoming available on a regular basis to help you with your joint pain.