Arthritis Zone
BASIC SCIENCE OF ARTHRITIS
Joints can handle some heavy pressure. For example, knees handle
a force of three to four times a person’s total body weight on average
just talking a walk. The force of a deep knee bend during a squat can
increase to nine times the body weight. So just imagine multiplying
weight of more than 150 pounds times a minimum of three or four, and
then even more. That can sure add up to a lot of heavy work on
knee joints over time.
Now for the science of this scenario. Where two bones meet, called the
joint, the bone ends are covered with cartilage, also known as gristle.
This cartilage is sturdy, elastic and spongy or compressible, and keeps
the bones from moving against each other at the joint. The cells
of this cartilage, called chondrocytes, are thought to be the longest
living cells of the body.
Surrounding the bones and cartilage is strong, fibrous capsule lined
with synovium, a thin membrane that lubricates the joint area with
fluid. The end result is less friction or smoother rubbing together of
the bones. This fluid also feds the cartilage cells, keeping them
healthy, and is “pumped” into them during joint movement. Thus lack of
movement (activity / exercise) can be unhealthy.
Other parts of the body features involved with this arthritic scenario
include muscles, tendons, ligaments, bursea and mental activity.
Muscles, attached to bones with tendons and ligaments, move bones by
contracting. They also cushion movement, absorbing impact or
shock. Throughout the muscle and tendon areas are bursae or sacs
filled with fluid. These also help cushion movement. And
throughout all the coordination of these parts during movement, the
brain is a part. The brain communicates via nerves throughout the body,
in particular the muscles for this scenario, to prepare joints for
activity.
The exact science of what actually causes arthritis is still being
researched. For most of the 100-plus forms of arthritis, the causes are
unknown. Injury, overuse of joints and mechanical issues with joints
(like skeletal abnormalities, worn out joint muscles) can lead to
arthritis. And many point to issues relating to bacteria and germs as
some of the problem. Heredity, stress, drugs, food allergies and
viruses have also been linked to some forms of arthritis. So have diet,
poor circulation and lack of movement.
INFLAMMATION
Arthritic joints can be affected with inflammation when bacteria
or a virus (or other undesirable element) enters the joint area or when
an injury occurs. What happens is when foreign matter enters this area
or the area sustains injury, white blood cells, antibodies and other
natural “fighting” mechanisms automatically kick in internally to help.
These fighters cause swelling, redness and heat as the body fluid moves
around. Symptoms of inflammation, one of the uncomfortable issues
associated with arthritis, are redness, swelling and tender joints.
OTHER MAIN TYPES OF ARTHRITIS
After osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), three
other major types of arthritis are systemic lupus erythematosis,
ankylosing spondylitis and gout. Let’s take a look at each.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosis (SLE) – This form of arthritis mainly
affects women. It develops in the skin, internal organs and joints.
Ankylosing Spondylitis – This form or arthritis affects the spine and
can also affect the ankles, knees, lungs, heart, shoulders and eyes.
Gout – This is a painful affliction mainly for men, about one million
of them in the United States alone. Uric acid build up, due to an
internal chemical malfunction, forms crystals that get stuck in a
joint, generally the big toe, and become inflamed.
Arthritic
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This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.