Arthritis -

Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is a common condition affecting adults, especially older adults, but can occur at any age.

Common Types of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA): Wear-and-tear of cartilage
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Autoimmune joint inflammation
Gouty arthritis: Due to uric acid crystal deposition
Psoriatic arthritis: Associated with psoriasis

Causes of Arthritis

a. Osteoarthritis (OA)

Aging and cartilage degeneration
Obesity (extra pressure on joints)
Joint injury or trauma
Repetitive stress on joints
Genetics

b. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Autoimmune disorder (body attacks joint lining)
Genetic predisposition
Environmental triggers (infection, smoking)

c. Gout

High uric acid levels (from diet or metabolism)
Alcohol consumption
High-purine diet

d. Other Causes

Infections (septic arthritis)
Metabolic disorders
Hormonal changes (post-menopause)

Symptoms of Arthritis

Common Symptoms

Joint pain and tenderness
Swelling and inflammation
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Reduced range of motion
Warmth and redness over joints
Fatigue (more in RA)

Severe Symptoms / Red Flags

Rapid joint swelling
Fever (infection-related)
Severe pain unrelieved by rest
Joint deformity

Diagnosis of Arthritis

a. Medical History & Physical Exam

Joint pain pattern
Morning stiffness duration
Swelling, deformity, tenderness

b. Laboratory Tests

Blood tests: ESR, CRP, rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies
Uric acid level (for gout)

c. Imaging

X-ray: Joint space narrowing, bone spurs (OA)
MRI / Ultrasound: Soft tissue and cartilage changes
CT scan: Detailed joint structure

Treatment of Arthritis

Treatment depends on the type of arthritis, its severity, and the joints affected.

Surecare Homeopathic Doctors’ View in Treating Arthritis

Homeopathy treats arthritis holistically, addressing pain, inflammation, stiffness, and underlying constitutional weaknesses. Remedies are individualized based on symptoms, affected joints, and patient constitution.

Homeopathic Approach

Evaluate type of arthritis (OA, RA, gout)
Assess pain pattern (burning, stitching, dull, throbbing)
Morning stiffness duration
Swelling, redness, heat, or cold aggravation
Emotional state (stress, anxiety)
Family history

Goals of Homeopathic Treatment

Reduce pain and swelling
Improve joint mobility
Strengthen connective tissues
Prevent recurrence
Holistic improvement in quality of life

Home Remedies for Arthritis

Heat therapy for stiffness
Cold packs for swelling
Gentle stretching and yoga
Weight management
Avoid prolonged joint stress

Prevention of Arthritis

Maintain healthy weight
Exercise regularly (low-impact: walking, swimming, cycling)
Avoid joint injury
Maintain good posture
Balanced diet to prevent inflammation
Manage stress (important in autoimmune arthritis)

Diet for Arthritis

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale)
Berries (strawberries, blueberries)
Fatty fish (salmon, sardines) – omega-3
Nuts and seeds
Turmeric, ginger, garlic
Olive oil

Foods to Avoid

Red meat in excess
Fried and processed foods
Excess sugar and refined carbs
Alcohol and soda
High-purine foods (for gout: organ meats, certain seafood)

Hydration

Adequate water intake for joint lubrication