Arthritis
Arthritis is a medical condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints, resulting in pain and limited movement. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, each with its own causes and symptoms. In this blog post, we will discuss 7 of the most common types of arthritis and their impact on occupational therapy.
Osteoarthritis - Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time, causing the bones to rub against each other, resulting in pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. As an occupational therapist, we work with patients with osteoarthritis to help them manage their pain, improve joint mobility, and increase their functional abilities.
Rheumatoid Arthritis - Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when the body's immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation and damage to the cartilage and bone. This can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function. As an occupational therapist, we work with patients with rheumatoid arthritis to help them manage their symptoms, improve joint mobility, and prevent joint damage.
Psoriatic Arthritis - Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs in people with psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint in the body and causes pain, stiffness, and swelling. As an occupational therapist, we work with patients with psoriatic arthritis to help them manage their symptoms, improve joint mobility, and prevent joint damage.
Ankylosing Spondylitis - Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. As an occupational therapist, we work with patients with ankylosing spondylitis to help them manage their symptoms, improve their posture, and prevent spinal deformities.
Gout - Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Gout most commonly affects the big toe, but it can also affect other joints. As an occupational therapist, we work with patients with gout to help them manage their symptoms, improve joint mobility, and prevent future attacks.
Juvenile Arthritis - Juvenile arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects children under the age of 16. There are several types of juvenile arthritis, including oligoarticular, polyarticular, systemic, and enthesitis-related arthritis. As an occupational therapist, we work with children with juvenile arthritis to help them manage their symptoms, improve joint mobility, and increase their functional abilities.
Infectious Arthritis - Infectious arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs when a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection spreads to the joints, causing inflammation and damage. As an occupational therapist, we work with patients with infectious arthritis to help them manage their symptoms, improve joint mobility, and prevent joint damage.
In conclusion, arthritis is a complex and varied condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As an occupational therapist working in an outpatient clinic rehabilitation and habilitation setting, we have seen firsthand how arthritis can impact a person's daily life. By understanding the different types of arthritis and their impact on occupational therapy, we can better help our patients manage their symptoms, improve their joint mobility, and increase their functional abilities.
Contact us today to learn more how we can help!