Abstract
Arthritis is a common condition seen frequently by family practitioners, and there are many types of arthritis. Management of arthritis depends largely on the specific type of arthritis that the patient suffers from. In this article, we will provide the primary care doctor with practical information for managing arthritis, focussing on the management of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Highlights
The term ‘arthritis’ refers to the swelling of a joint or joints with associated limitation of movement, heat, pain or tenderness, which is caused by inflammation or degeneration of one or more joints.[1]
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated agency of the authors
Summary
The term ‘arthritis’ refers to the swelling of a joint or joints with associated limitation of movement, heat, pain or tenderness, which is caused by inflammation or degeneration of one or more joints.[1]. Osteoarthritis is a clinical syndrome of joint pain that is accompanied by varying degrees of functional restriction, reduced quality of life and lack of psychosocial well-being.[11,12] It is the most common form of degenerative arthritis and one of the leading causes of pain and disability worldwide.[1,11] https://www.safpj.co.za. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune condition, which causes pain, swelling and stiffness of multiple joints of the body.[25] Tiredness, lack of energy, weight loss, fever, sweating and dry eyes may manifest with systemic involvement. AZA, azathioprine; CYC, cyclosporine; DMARDs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drug; IL, interleukin; MTX, methotrexate; NSAIDs, non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; SSZ, salazopyrin; TNF, tumour necrosis factor; SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus. Patient education directed at strengthening social and emotional support to enhance self-management of pain and disability as well as adherence to health recommendations is essential.[25]
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