Arthritis comes from the Greek word "arthron" meaning joint. Arthritis literally means 'joint inflammation'. According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 100 different diseases that produce joint pain and inflammation - everything from the flu to certain cancers. The two most common forms of 'arthritis' are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

There are over 100 kinds of arthritis that can affect many different areas of the body. In addition to the joints, some forms of arthritis are associated with diseases of other tissues and organs in the body. People of all ages, including children and young adults, can develop arthritis.

There is no standard treatment for arthritis. Some doctors may recommend a diet but there is no evidence that dietary changes alone can ease or stop the development of arthritis.

It is important for patients with arthritis to obtain help to keep the muscles and joints active and to be supported in leading a normal life.

While medication may be part of a recommended treatment plan for people with arthritis, a tailored exercise program can be beneficial to management of pain and fatigue and to preserve joint structure and function. Once you know what type of arthritis you have and understand what symptoms you can expect, you and your physician or physical therapist can develop a balanced program of physical activity to reduce the damaging affects of arthritis and promote overall good health.

Treatment plays a key role in controlling the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis and minimizing joint damage. Treatment usually entails a combination of drug therapy and other non-drug therapies. In some cases, treatment may also involve surgery.

There are definite goals in the treatment of Arthritis (whatever type) which need to be factored in when deciding on a course of action and this course of action may be complex. To achieve such goals may need a combination of treatments including conventional medicines, effective alternative treatments, changes in diet and food, rest, exercise, lifestyle changes (such as the need to lose weight) and the protection of the joints.

Certain exercises, such as swimming, walking, low-impact aerobic exercise, and range-of-motion exercises, may help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Stretching exercises may be helpful in keeping the joints flexible.

Heat and cold therapies. Heat therapy (paraffin wax, ultrasound or moist heat) increases blood flow and flexibility in the joint. Cold therapy (cold packs, cold-water soaks, over-the-counter sprays and ointments) numbs the nerves and relieves inflammation.

The first step in the diagnosis of arthritis is a meeting between the doctor and the patient. The doctor will review the history of symptoms, examine the joints for inflammation and deformity, as well as ask questions about or examine other parts of the body for inflammation or signs of diseases that can affect other body areas. Furthermore, certain blood, urine, joint fluid, and/or x-ray tests might be ordered. The diagnosis will be based on the pattern of symptoms, the distribution of the inflamed joints, and any blood test and x-ray findings. Several visits may be necessary before the doctor can be certain of the diagnosis.

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