Understanding the Different Types of Inflammatory Arthritis

Are you or someone you know struggling with joint pain that seems to worsen over time? Inflammatory arthritis affects millions of people, making everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs feel like an uphill battle. With World Arthritis Day around the corner, it is the perfect time to learn more about the different types of inflammatory arthritis and how they impact life.

What is Inflammatory Arthritis?

Inflammatory arthritis is a broad term used to describe a group of diseases where inflammation is the primary cause of joint pain. The inflammation, often triggered by an immune system malfunction, leads to joint damage, pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, the damage to joints can worsen and cause deformities. When inflammatory arthritis affects the knees or hips, it can significantly impact a person's mobility, sometimes making treatments such as hip replacement or knee replacement necessary.

Common Types of Inflammatory Arthritis

a. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid Arthritis is one of the most common types of inflammatory arthritis. As per WHO data, over 18 million worldwide were living with RA in 2019[2]. It is a chronic disease where the immune system attacks the joint lining, resulting in painful swelling. Over time, this can lead to joint deformity and bone erosion. RA often affects the knees and hips, leading to restricted movement. In severe cases, total knee replacement may be recommended to restore joint function.

Symptoms:

• Swollen and tender joints
• Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after being inactive for a while
• Fatigue and weight loss 

Impact on Daily Life:

Living with rheumatoid arthritis is difficult as it affects an individual's ability to conduct simple daily tasks. Simple physical activities like walking or climbing stairs can become tiresome. Knee replacement implants are often used when the knee joints are damaged beyond repair, providing relief from pain and restoring mobility. 

Risk Factors:

• Family history of RA
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Age (commonly diagnosed in middle-aged adults) 

RA is also associated with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition which weakens the bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures. In some cases, both RA and osteoporosis may increase the need for hip replacement surgery.

b. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

Psoriatic Arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis that occurs in people with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. PsA causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, including the knees and hips. Like RA, PsA can lead to severe joint damage that may eventually require total knee replacement. 

Symptoms:

• Swollen fingers and toes
• Joint stiffness and pain
• Changes in the nail, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed
• Eye inflammation 

Connection to Psoriasis:

Most people with PsA have a history of psoriasis, though it’s possible to develop PsA without visible skin symptoms. Psoriasis and PsA share common inflammatory pathways, and managing the underlying skin condition can help manage joint inflammation. 

Lifestyle Considerations:

Maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active can help manage PsA symptoms. In advanced cases, knee replacement or hip replacement may become necessary to preserve mobility and quality of life.

c. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)

Ankylosing Spondylitis is an inflammatory arthritis primarily affects the spine, but it can also impact other joints like the knees and hips. AS causes chronic inflammation in the spine, leading to stiffness and fusion of the vertebrae. In severe cases, this can result in a stooped posture or limited mobility. 

Symptoms:

• Chronic back pain and stiffness
• Pain in the hips or knees
• Fatigue
• Reduced flexibility in the spine 

Progression:

AS is a progressive disease, meaning symptoms can worsen over time. For those with severe hip involvement, hip replacement surgery may be recommended to improve movement and reduce pain. 

Diagnosis of Inflammatory Arthritis

• Diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis includes medical history, physical exams, and tests.
• Blood tests check for inflammation markers like elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) or rheumatoid factor.
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays and MRIs, assess joint damage and disease progression.

DESTIKNEE from Meril

The DESTIKNEE system by Meril is a primary replacement implant designed for total knee replacement procedures. It features a modern and anatomically adapted design optimized to provide both high flexion and stability, which are crucial for the natural movement of the knee joint. The implant is crafted using advanced materials and technology to ensure durability and longevity. DESTIKNEE aims to achieve a perfect balance between the biomechanical demands of the knee and the physical lifestyle expectations of the patient, promoting a smoother recovery and enhancing the overall quality of life post-surgery. This implant is part of a broader range of innovative orthopedic solutions offered by Meril that are aimed at improving surgical outcomes and patient mobility.

Latitud Hip Replacement System by Meril

The Latitud Hip Replacement System by Meril is a comprehensive solution designed to meet the diverse needs of patients undergoing hip replacement surgery, offering advanced materials and modular components for tailored, durable implants. Featuring highly cross-linked polyethylene and ceramic bearings, the system minimizes wear and extends implant lifespan. It restores natural biomechanics, enhancing mobility and reducing complications. The system supports uncemented fixation, allowing for secure placement based on patient-specific factors, and accommodates minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery times and improve patient’s quality of life. Meril's commitment to innovation and quality is evident in the Latitud Hip Replacement System, providing superior outcomes for patients in India and globally.

MISSO® by Meril

MISSO® Robotic System by Meril is an advanced orthopedic solution designed for primary knee replacements. It integrates CT scan-based preoperative planning for high precision in bone resections and implant placements. Key features include sub-millimetre precision, personalised surgical plans, real-time intra-operative metrics, and safety features like bone movement monitoring. Compatible with Freedom, Destiknee, and Opulent knee implants, MISSO® aims to improve patient outcomes with quicker recovery and improved results.

Conclusion

Living with inflammatory arthritis can be challenging, but understanding the condition and exploring the right treatment options can make all the difference. On World Arthritis Day, let us raise awareness and take proactive steps to improve life with arthritis. Take the time to learn, share, and support those affected by this condition.

Reference Links:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507704/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/rheumatoid-arthritis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648#:~:text=Rheumatoid%20arthritis%20is%20an%20autoimmune,%2C%20nerves%2C%20eyes%20and%20skin.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/in-depth/rheumatoid-arthritis-exercise/art-20096222
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7589399/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354076#:~:text=Psoriatic%20arthritis%20occurs%20when%20your,in%20this%20immune%20system%20response.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354808
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353653