November 18, 2007

Arthritis Explained

Arthritis can be grouped into two main categories based upon the "localized" or "generalized" areas of the body or joints that are affected and then into sub-categories.Localized Conditions: The arthritis that affects the soft tissue surrounding the joints or bones is considered soft tissue localized conditions, such as bursitis or tendonitis. Another sub-category of the localized conditions only affects one or only a few joints, such as a knee or hip.Generalized Conditions: The first sub-category for generalized conditions are for those that affect the muscle and soft tissue where there is no evidence of swelling or inflammation. The condition is not associated with joint damage. Fibromyalgia is a common type of arthritis that is placed under this category.The second sub-category of conditions includes arthritis conditions that involve inflammation that affects the entire body. Rheumatoid arthritis is an example of a condition under this category, as well as gout, and psoriatic arthritis. Other generalized arthritis conditions are polymyositis (muscles); systemic lupus erythematosus (skin, kidneys, or other organs); and vasculitis (any organ).All arthritis conditions affect the musculoskeletal system and joints. Arthritis affecting the joint conditions causes pain, stiffness, inflammation, and damage to the joint cartilage. Cartilage is the tissue that covers the […]