Rheumatology

Osteoarthritis (OA), is the most common form of arthritis and is known as “wear and tear” arthritis. It develops as the cartilage that covers the ends of bones breaks down ultimately causing the bones of the joint to grind against each other. This may cause, pain and stiffness and decreased in range of motion. OA most often affects the hands, hips and knees.

Symptoms of OA may include:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Loss of flexibility
• Grating sensation

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), is an inflammatory condition that occurs when a patient’s immune system is overactive and attacks healthy tissues. Many autoimmune diseases manifest with inflammation of the synovium, or lining of joints, causing pain and stiffness. However, inflammatory arthritis may also affect the lungs, eyes, skin, connective tissue and other organs. This may cause the patient painful symptoms and potentially lasting damage to the inflamed tissues.

RA may affect the joints of the hands, wrists, feet, shoulders, elbows and ankles.

Symptoms of RA may include:

• Pain
• Fatigue
• Slight fever
• Weight loss
• Stiffness
• Numbness and tingling
• Loss of flexibility