Arthritis: the facts

Blackmores talks to Dr David Hunter, author of Living with arthritis: the complete self-care guide about understanding the condition.

"The majority of people tend to perceive it as the worst possible diagnosis. A common misconception is that they may end up in a wheelchair in a very short period of time, that they'll be unable to walk or do anything with their hands, and that it's a very destructive disease. But these days, this is not the case – most of these diseases are usually easily managed and can be well controlled. I spend the majority of my first consultations with people dispelling those misconceptions," says Dr Hunter

So how does inflammation lead to joint pain?

"Inside the joint capsule lining there's a tissue called synovium. In a person who has arthritis that synovium becomes quite thickened and develops in much greater excess than normal. The tissue itself is actually quite full of nerves and when it becomes thickened and inflamed, people can perceive that as pain. While that's the most common form of joint pain, inflammatory or other types of arthritis can involve changes from within the bone which can also produce pain."

Contrary to popular thought, arthritis does not only affect the elderly, Dr Hunter elaborates. "There are particular forms of juvenile arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis typically occurs in people between 30 and 50. Osteoarthritis, particularly in men, usually begins under the age of 50 and is a sequela to either a knee or hip injury, or another joint injury. So the common complaint you hear of soccer or football players after they've torn a ligament or meniscus is of other knee problems. That's often a sign of osteoarthritis."

Dr Hunter has also found that cases of osteoarthritis are increasing; largely a function of increasing obesity in the community; we're also getting older, and the baby boomer generation is reaching an age where many are starting to become affected.

On the other end of the scale, younger people may take the appropriate action when they think they may have a particular type of arthritis. Experts advise people to go along and get a proper diagnosis then they should make an effort to be as best informed as they can about the condition and what options are available for pain management.

"When you're living with arthritis it is important to get appropriate rest," Dr Hunter advises. "If you experience joint pain and have limited function as a result, there are modifications you can make to make your lifestyle easier. If someone has neck pain, there are modifications to a person's car that can be made. The list is limitless and it depends on what type of arthritis you have. Be sure to see an appropriate health professional and read about other options for managing your arthritis."

Basic lifestyle changes may help people manage arthritis symptoms in the long term, so mostly exercise and dietary-based options. A lot of the general community are very well informed about over-the-counter preparations and complementary therapies.

In terms of complementary medicines, products containing glucosamine are frequently recommended. In a most of the studies completed, glucosamine (and to a lesser extent chondroitin) have been shown to be equally effective as some anti-inflammatories in relieving pain associated with arthritis.

For further information refer to Living with arthritis: the complete self-care guide by Dr David Hunter, published by ABC Books, RRP $29.95.