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St. Louis Arthritis Treatment

Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis Information

Arthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting Americans, with the number totaling over 46 million individuals of all ages. Over half of those affected are under age 65. The most common types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Other forms include septic arthritis, juvenile arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, pseudo-gout and still's disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis, also referred to as acute inflammatory arthritis or RA, affects bones by causing inflammation in the joints (synovial joints, specifically). Rheumaoid arthritis can be painful and debilitating, leading to a significantly reduced range of motion in the affected joints as well as stiffness, locking and disfigurement. Most often rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed by its symptoms -- joint tenderness, pain, and swelling are the most telling -- however it is also possible to diagnose the disease with a rheumatoid factor blood test as well as by looking at the affected joints in an x-ray.

Find out more about rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, also known as "degenerative arthritis," or "degenerative joint disease," is one of the most common types of arthritis, affecting approximately 20 million individuals in the US. Osteoarthritis affects about half of the population 65 or older, making it a very prevalent disease in older age groups. As patients' ages increase, so does the prevalence of the disease. Osteoarthritis causes problems with day-to-day activities that should be simple: walking up the stairs, bending down or gardening.

Find out more about osteoarthritis.

Gout (Acute Inflammatory Arthritis)

Gout is a related form of arthritis that presents itself during increased periods of rheumatoid arthritis. Gout is defined by increased uric acid amounts in the blood stream. This uric acid will crystalize and deposit in joints as well as surrounding tissue. Gout usually affects joints in the feet.

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