About arthritis

Types:

INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS -- may affect joints, skin, kidneys and other parts of the body.

DEGENERATIVE ARTHRITIS -- more commonly referred to as osteoarthritis and "wear and tear" arthritis.

SYNDROMES -- fibromyalgia, a syndrome noted for widespread muscle pain and fatigue.

Warning Signs: Could you have arthritis?

* Swelling in one or more joints.

* Early morning stiffness.

* Recurring pain or tenderness in any joint.

* Inability to move a joint normally.

* Obvious redness and warmth in or around a joint.

* Unexplained weight loss, fever or weakness combined with joint pain.

If you have any of the warning signs in or around a joint for more than two weeks, schedule an appointment to see your doctor.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis and treatment of arthritis may require testing and being seen by an arthritis specialist. Self-management is a very important tool for people with arthritis and includes:

* Appropriate physical activity.

* Maintaining an appropriate weight.

* Joint protection.

* Education and referral to available services.

Related disorders:

OSTEOPOROSIS -- thinning of the bone to the point of fracture. A silent disease often referred to as brittle bones.

OSTEOPENIA -- low bone mass, placing the individual at an increased risk for developing osteoporosis.

To schedule an individual appointment, class or training, or to learn how the Missouri Regional Arthritis Center can help, call 331-5880 or (888) 216-3293.

Source: Missouri Regional Arthritis Center