Definition

Arthritis is defined as the inflammation of a joint, usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and frequently by changes in joint structures.

There are many different types of arthritis. The most common are:

Rheumatoid Arthritis - A chronic disease marked by inflammatory changes in joints and related structures (ligaments, muscle, etc.)

Osteoarthritis - A condition marked by progressive cartilage degeneration.

Common Causes

• Injury to joint
• Infection
• Trauma
• Degenerative joint disease
• Metabolic disorders
• Periarticular conditions (conditions occurring in structures surrounding the joint)

Risk Factors

• Overuse or abuse of joints and surrounding structures
• Strenuous occupations and/or activities involving repetitive motions
• Aging
• Obesity
• Poor ergonomics
• Genetics: many types of arthritis are unavoidable. Awareness of family history of arthritis-related conditions may allow for early recognition and treatment.

Symptoms

• Joint pain
• Joint swelling
• Changes in joint size or shape
• Heat and/or redness at the joint
• Loss of mobility
• Early morning stiffness

With Arthritis, these symptoms last for more than two weeks.

Facts About Arthritis

• 21.7% of women have arthritis*
• 15.7% of men have arthritis*
• 500,000 BC residents have arthritis*
• By the year 2031, arthritis prevalence is expected to increase by 124%*
• 25% of long term disability cases are caused by arthritis*
• Arthritis is the second most frequent reason for non-prescription drug use*

Treatment

• Due to the various types of arthritis, treatment will vary depending on the type of arthritis, the severity, which joints are affected, how the patient is affected and the person's age, occupation and daily activities.
• Since many cases of arthritis are chronic, treatment may be focused on reducing the discomfort and pain associated with arthritis. Increasing and maintaining the patient's strength and mobility with therapeutic exercise and home care will help to reduce any discomfort and prevent further disability. Assisting the patient in caring for their condition will give the best treatment results.

Research

The MTA of BC has a research library consisting of over 160 research articles pertaining to massage therapy. Research on arthritis and the use of massage therapy treatments have shown a marked decrease in the cortisol hormone levels along with a decrease in pain and an increase in the range of motion.

For more information, see: The Arthritis Society website

The above information has been provided courtesy of the Massage Therapists' Association of BC