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There are over 100 identified types of arthritis. The types range from those related to cartilage degeneration and wear-and-tear (osteoarthritis) to those associated with inflammation due to an overactive immune system (rheumatoid arthritis.

TThe causes of arthritis depend on the type of arthritis the patient has. Osteoarthritis occurs from age, injury, and wear-and-tear, whereas metabolic abnormalities cause gout. In addition, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are related to hereditary factors, infections, and a misdirected immune system.

The signs of arthritis include deformities of the joints, nodules (joint growths), loss of normal spinal curvature, and gait abnormalities. Symptoms include:

. Joint stiffness
. Joint swelling
. Joint warmth and redness
. JImmobility
. Back pain
. Loss of joint function
. Joint pain

The doctor will diagnose arthritis after conducting a complete physical examination and taking a detailed medical history. X-rays and other diagnostic imaging tests are used to confirm the diagnosis. In addition, certain blood and joint fluid analysis tests may be ordered. The only way to properly treat the arthritis is a correct diagnosis. Many forms of arthritis are difficult to diagnose.

The treatment of arthritis is dependent on the exact type of arthritis present. Once an accurate diagnosis is made, treatment options include:

Medications - Pain medications are used for many forms of arthritis, including acetaminophen and narcotics. Certain types of arthritis respond to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen. In addition, topical analgesics are sprayed onto or rubbed into the skin over the painful joint. These agents include capsaicin, salicylates, and counterirritants (menthol or camphor).

Physical therapy - To improve joint mobility, increase muscle strength, and enhance joint flexibility, the doctor may order physical therapy. This rehabilitation program involves a 1-2 sessions per week for several weeks or months.

Epidural steroid injection (ESI) - With this procedure, the doctor injects the epidural space with a long-acting corticosteroid, which is done with x-ray guidance for correct placement. ESI is useful for spinal arthritis that results in back pain and leg symptoms. Recent clinical studies show that ESI has an efficacy rate of 90%, when symptoms are present for less than three months. For patients with long-standing spinal arthritis symptoms, ESI has around an 80-90% success rate.

Sacroiliac joint injection - The SI joint is located in the very low back. The doctor will use x-ray guidance to inject this area with an anesthetic agent, and possibly, a corticosteroid. In a recent clinical research study, around 70% of patients reported improved functional ability and pain relief with this injection.

Steroid joint injection - The doctor can inject a corticosteroid, with or without an anesthetic agent, directly into the arthritic joint. In one clinical research study, steroid injection significantly relieved pain and improved joint function in participants for up to three months.

Hyaluronic acid injection - For knee osteoarthritis, the doctor can inject hyaluronic acid into the joint, which includes Orthovisc, Synvisc, and Hyalgan. One recent report found that hyaluronic acid injection of the knee relieved pain and improved mobility for up to 25 weeks.

Regenerative Medicine - The latest cutting edge treatment options for degenerative and rheumatoid arthritis include regenerative medicine. This includes platelet rich plasma therapy, bone marrow derived stem cell therapy and amniotic derived stem cell therapy. Initial results with these procedures have been nothing short of stellar for helping patients avoid joint replacement and spine surgery.