Arthritis encompasses a group of musculoskeletal disorders that cause joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and psoriatic arthritis being the most prevalent. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition, results from wear and tear of cartilage, commonly affecting knees, hips, and hands. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, causes chronic joint inflammation, leading to deformities if untreated, while psoriatic arthritis is linked to psoriasis and can affect both skin and joints. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent joint damage and maintain mobility. Advanced imaging techniques and biomarkers now allow more accurate detection, helping clinicians tailor treatments to disease severity.
Management of arthritis combines pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and surgical strategies. Anti-inflammatory medications, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics are used to control symptoms and slow disease progression. Physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications help maintain joint function and reduce stiffness. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as joint replacement or synovectomy are considered to restore mobility and improve quality of life. Emerging therapies, including regenerative medicine and targeted biologics, offer new hope for managing these conditions more effectively. Together, these approaches provide a comprehensive, patient-centered strategy for arthritis care, aiming to reduce pain, preserve joint function, and enhance overall well-being.