What are the stages of Arthritis?
Arthritis is a complex condition with various types, each with its own progression and stages. Before asking questions like, “How quickly does rheumatoid arthritis spread”, it is important to understand the types and stages. Two of the most common types, osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), have general stages of progression.
Osteoarthritis (OA):
1. Early Stage (Mild):
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- In the early stage, cartilage within the joint begins to deteriorate. This deterioration may cause mild symptoms such as occasional joint pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. X-rays may show slight joint space narrowing.
2. Moderate Stage (Moderate):
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- As the condition progresses, cartilage loss becomes more significant, leading to increased pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function. Bone spurs (osteophytes) may form around the joint Joint inflammation and swelling may also occur.
3. Severe Stage (Advanced):
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- In the advanced stage, significant cartilage loss results in bone-on-bone contact within the joint. This leads to severe pain, stiffness, swelling, and deformity. Mobility may be greatly affected, impacting daily activities. X-rays typically show marked joint space narrowing and extensive osteophyte formation.
The Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
Rheumatoid arthritis progression involves four stages –
1. Early Stage (Mild to Moderate):
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- In the early stage, rheumatology arthritis typically begins with inflammation of the synovial lining of the joint, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Symptoms may be intermittent and may affect multiple joints Laboratory tests may show elevated levels of inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
2. Moderate Stage (Moderate):
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- As RA progresses, joint inflammation becomes more persistent and may lead to joint damage and Symptoms worsen, with increased pain, swelling, and stiffness. Joint deformities may start to develop, affecting joint function and mobility. X-rays may show joint erosion and soft tissue swelling.
3. Severe Stage (Advanced):
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- In advanced RA, joint damage and deformities become more Severe pain, swelling, and stiffness can significantly impair joint function and quality of life. Joint destruction may lead to irreversible damage, including joint fusion (ankylosis). Systemic complications may also arise, affecting other organs and tissues. Once the condition crosses the above-mentioned stages of rheumatoid arthritis, it moves to stage 4, where there is no long any inflammation. However, the damage to the joints continues.
Approaching a professional to help identify the symptoms and progression of arthritis rheumatology or osteoarthritis will help determine your arthritis treatment in Parramatta. It’s important to note that arthritis progression can vary greatly among individuals, and not everyone will experience all stages or progress through them in a linear fashion. Additionally, effective management strategies, including medication, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and surgical interventions, can help control symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve overall quality of life at any stage of arthritis.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for optimal management and outcomes. If you suspect you have arthritis or are experiencing joint symptoms, consult with one of our practitioners at Posture Pain Correction Today.