Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Knee

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic type of inflammationunknown even as of now, it is widely believed that
that occurs symmetrically, affecting key joints of thegenetics and living environments play a part in who is
body such as hands, knees, ankles, feet, hips, elbowsaffected by it and who is not. Rheumatoid arthritis of
and shoulders. The condition is more likely to affectthe knee is diagnosed based on symptoms pretty
women than men and is common in those who aremuch along the lines of general rheumatoid arthritis.
aged 40 and above, though it can most certainlyBlood tests and X rays to verify the damage to joint
occur in much younger persons as well. It is blamedare also used in the diagnostic process for this
for a number of symptoms that include joint swellingcondition. A test of the fluid between the joints can
and pain, stiffness and types of deformity.also help diagnose the condition as a high level of
Rheumatoid arthritis in the knee can be particularlyinflammatory material therein will indicate rheumatoid
painful and cause severe restrictions to one'sarthritis affecting the said joint.
freedom of movement. Although there is no knownThere are a few time tested treatments available for
cure as yet, the condition can still be managed to arheumatoid arthritis of the knee. Common types of
fair degree.medication include aspirins, acetaminophen (or Tylenol)
Before we discuss rheumatoid arthritis of the kneeand nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Most of
let us look at this particular joint which is verythese treatments are targeted at the pain as there is
important when it comes to mobility. Around theno cure to completely eradicate the condition. Regular
ends of the bones is the cartilage and this preventsexercises targeting the health of the joints can also
the bones from rubbing against each other. Betweenbe recommended as a practice to keep the condition
the two cartilages of the particular bones is a smallin check. Excess weight can meanwhile compound
pouch that is covered with a thin tissue known asthe condition as the excess weight places a
synovium and this secretes a liquid that helps keepdisproportionate stress and pressure on them. As
the joint lubricated. When the synovium is affectedsuch it is best to maintain a weight that is
as a result of the rheumatoid arthritis condition, therecommended for your height or to reduce weight
functions of the various parts that make up the kneevia a suitable diet plan in case you are overweight.
get affected and fail to function as they should.In a worst case scenario where damage to the joints
Common symptoms of this disease's effects on theis severe, a replacement procedure may be required.
knee include pain, swelling and inflammation, stiffness,This last resort surgery can be expected to produce
a warm feeling around the knee, fever, flua successful outcome thanks to modern day
symptoms and fatigue. While the exact cause for theadvances in procedures of the sort.
disease in general and its effects on the knee are