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Help with Arthritis in later life.

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints. The term “arthritis” is often used to refer to osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of joint disease and affects many people in some form as they get older. There are other causes of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis: a highly destructive inflammatory joint disease. Osteoarthritis is often described as ‘wear and tear’ of the joints, although this is not the whole picture. It is rarely found in people under 45 but gets increasingly common in older age.

Find out more about Arthritis

How will it affect me?

Osteoarthritis can cause:

  • progressive pain and stiffness in joints, commonly in the knees and spine
  • redness or tenderness
  • bony protrusions called osteophytes

What causes it?
Over time, damage to joints begins to build up and can outstrip the body’s ability to repair itself, or can be repaired poorly, leading to further damage. Some people are more prone to developing osteoarthritis than others. Being overweight seems to be a risk factor, while regular moderate exercise may help to prevent it.

How common is it?

More than half of over 65s have symptoms, and even more will have some evidence of it on X-Rays.

How is it diagnosed?

It is usually diagnosed clinically based on history and examination. Sometimes X-Rays or MRI scans are helpful, especially if surgery is being considered.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on the severity, but the main focus is on maintaining function and mobility. Except after an injury, rest is not helpful, and remaining mobile seems to be the best thing to keep joints healthy. Weight loss can help if you are overweight by reducing the load on the joint. Sometimes the pain or stiffness can limit activity, and careful use of painkillers can help progressive increases in movement and flexibility. In severe cases, knee or hip surgery may be effective.

We’re Red & Yellow Care, the
health experts for later life.


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Dr Colin Mitchell

Consultant Geriatrician


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